Parks Canada is asking visitors to Banff National Park to stay on the Johnston Canyon Trail in order to protect an endangered bird.
Off-trail use along the popular hiking route is now strictly prohibited under a new restricted activity order issued by the park superintendent.
“Off-trail use is strictly prohibited along the Johnston Canyon Trail to protect black swifts, an endangered bird species listed under Canada’s Species at Risk Act,” reads the bulletin posted online.
The restriction applies to the full length of the trail from the lower sign to the Ink Pots and Moose Meadows junction.
Johnston Canyon is home to a small population of black swifts, which rely on quiet nesting areas near waterfalls and rock crevices.
“In order to survive in this area, black swifts need protection from human disturbances as their numbers have declined significantly at this site,” the order states.
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Park officials say the move is meant to reduce erosion, trampling and destruction of sensitive vegetation and soils, in addition to minimizing noise and movement that can disrupt the birds.
“All users must stay on the official trail,” says the order, adding that anyone who violates the rule could face a fine of up to $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act.