Alberta residents who frequent Kananaskis Country or commute to Calgary will face major disruptions starting June 10 as the region enters a strict security lockdown for the 2025 G7 Leaders' Summit.
With restricted access, roadblocks, and an increased police presence throughout the area, residents can expect delays and challenges navigating through Kananaskis and Calgary during the summit, which will take place from June 15 to 17.
The RCMP, leading the Integrated Safety and Security Group (ISSG) for the summit, has confirmed a Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) will be in effect across Kananaskis Country. Entry will be restricted to authorized personnel, residents, and businesses with mandatory accreditation. "Those without credentials will be turned away at security checkpoints," officials confirmed.
Security Measures and Law Enforcement Roles
The RCMP is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of world leaders. At the same time, the ISSG coordinates efforts across law enforcement and security agencies, including the Calgary Police Service, Alberta Sheriffs’ Branch, Alberta Conservation Officers, and the Canadian Armed Forces.
Key roles will include:
- Motorcade support for heads of state
- Securing hotels and venues hosting dignitaries
- Wildlife management teams to prevent human-wildlife conflicts
- Deployment of specialized public order units
- Processing individuals charged with crimes, if necessary
Key Road and Trail Closures
Restricted vehicle and foot traffic will apply in critical areas:
- No unauthorized vehicles past Mount Lorette Ponds on Highway 40 southbound
- No public access past the Galatea Creek parking lot, north along Highway 40
- All hiking trails along the eastern slope of Highway 742 will be closed, but trails west of the highwill way remain open
Further trail closures are anticipated and will be confirmed as the summit approaches. Officers will maintain a high-visibility presence, and checkpoints will be strictly enforced.
Alberta Parks Closures
Alberta Parks has also confirmed the following facilities will be closed:
- Kananaskis Village Common Area – Closed June 10 to 18 (applies to public areas, not under lease by third parties)
- Troll Falls Trailhead Day Use – Closed May 12 to June 20 (dates may change)
- Nakiska Ski Area – Closed from April 22 to July 30
- Kovach Pond Day Use – Closed March 10 to July 31 (dates may change)
These closures apply to public spaces; private businesses under lease are not included. Alberta Parks has yet to confirm additional restrictions.
Calgary’s Role in the Summit
Calgary will host various G7 events and delegations, with the Calgary Police Service working alongside the RCMP. As police of jurisdiction (POJ) for events within Calgary, the CPS will oversee local security.
The city is expected to accommodate:
- 10,000 hotel bookings
- 70 official guests
- 2,000 delegates
- 1,400 journalists
- Thousands of security personnel
Protests are expected, and designated protest zones will be announced once confirmed.
Cybersecurity and Risk Management
Authorities are also preparing for cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure, communications, and security networks, incorporating robust cybersecurity measures into the overall risk management plan.
Security Costs and Federal Funding
Federal funding will cover CPS costs through the Major International Event Security Cost Framework. These expenses will not impact the CPS budget and will be disclosed after the summit’s conclusion.
Why Kananaskis is Hosting the G7
This is the second time Kananaskis has hosted a G7 Summit, the first being in 2002. Canada rotates hosting duties with other G7 nations, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau or his successor will lead the discussions.
Past G7 Summits hosted by Canada:
- 2018 – Charlevoix, Quebec
- 2010 – Muskoka, Ontario
- 2002 – Kananaskis, Alberta
- 1995 – Halifax, Nova Scotia
- 1988 – Toronto, Ontario
- 1981 – Ottawa-Montebello, Ontario-Quebec
The 2025 summit will focus on climate policy, global security and economic growth.
RCMP and CPS to Provide Security Update Today
Representatives from the RCMP and the Calgary Police Service will update the Calgary Police Commission on ongoing preparations for the G7 Summit today, Wednesday, Feb. 26.
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