Airdrie residents planning to visit Kananaskis in June will face major closures and restrictions as the region is locked down for the 2025 G7 Leaders' Summit, which will take place from June 15 to 17.
The RCMP's Integrated Safety and Security Group will implement strict security measures, including a controlled access zone, roadblocks, and a heavy police presence. Some closures will start as early as March and extend into July.
What will be closed
A controlled access zone will be in place from June 10 to 18, restricting entry to authorized personnel, residents, and businesses. Those without credentials will be turned away at checkpoints.
- There is no public access past Mount Lorette Ponds on Highway 40 southbound.
- No public access is past the Galatea Creek parking lot on Highway 40 northbound.
- All trails along the eastern slope of Highway 742 will be closed.
- Kananaskis Village, Kananaskis Outfitters and Skyridge Glamping will be closed.
- Nakiska Ski Area will be closed from April 22 to July 30.
- Troll Falls, Galatea, Mount Lorette Ponds, and Beaver Ponds will be closed from March through June.
- Additional trail closures are still being determined. The RCMP has stated that they are working to identify all affected trails and will provide further details once they are finalized.
Security checkpoints will be staffed, and access will be restricted to those with accreditation.
Roadblocks and checkpoints
Two security checkpoints will be established on Highway 40 leading into Kananaskis Village:
- North screening checkpoint: 18 kilometres south of the Highway 1 and Highway 40 junction, near Mount Lorette Ponds.
- South screening checkpoint: 10 kilometres south of the north checkpoint.
Unauthorized vehicles will not be allowed through.
Security measures in place
The Integrated Safety and Security Group, led by the RCMP, is deploying an extensive security operation in the region. Measures will include:
- A large police presence throughout Kananaskis.
- Restricted zones with controlled entry.
- Temporary no-fly zones, including a drone ban.
- Traffic management, including detours, roadblocks and parking restrictions.
- Public safety patrols and emergency response teams on standby.
Emergency services access
Despite restrictions, emergency services will have access to all areas. The RCMP has stated that provisions are in place to ensure police, fire and medical response will not be impacted within the controlled access zone.
Protests and enforcement
Authorities will allow designated protest zones, but locations have not yet been announced.
- Protests will be restricted to specific locations.
- RCMP will have a strong presence at demonstration sites.
- Alberta’s Critical Infrastructure Defence Act will be enforced.
The RCMP’s Community Relations Group will work with businesses, community organizations and protest organizers to facilitate discussions ahead of the summit.
Local business impact
In addition to closures at Kananaskis Outfitters and Skyridge Glamping, other businesses within the controlled access zone may face operational restrictions. The RCMP has stated they are working with companies to ensure access where possible, but full details have not been provided.
Security costs
The federal government has not disclosed the cost of security measures. Costs will not be released until after the summit, but previous G7 events have required security budgets in the billions of dollars.
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.
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