Sophia Gould

August 1, 2024

The turquoise lakes. The whispering pines. The towering Rockies.
Visitors from around the world flock to Alberta’s mountain towns for their beauty. But behind the postcard scenes, locals are facing housing crises, environmental strain, and cultural erosion.

And while eco-tourism trends and zero-waste packing lists may sound good, they’re not enough.

If we want to preserve the magic of the Canadian Rockies for future generations, sustainable tourism needs to be more than a feel-good phrase—it must be a long-term commitment to people, place, and purpose.

What Is Sustainable Tourism, Really?

Too often, sustainable tourism is misunderstood as being only about the environment: cutting emissions, reducing waste, and going green. But true sustainability runs deeper.

According to the UN World Tourism Organization, sustainable tourism takes full account of its current and future environmental, economic, and social impacts—serving the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities alike.

In other words, it's not just about how you travel. It's about who benefits, who bears the costs, and how we ensure tourism leaves communities stronger—not just landscapes cleaner.

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Why It Matters in the Canadian Rockies

In towns like Banff, Jasper, and Canmore, tourism is booming. But so are the problems:

Skyrocketing housing prices are pushing out long-term residents.
Overcrowded trails are degrading delicate ecosystems.
Short-term rentals are reshaping neighborhoods, prioritizing profit over people.

These issues aren’t just side effects—they’re red flags. And if left unchecked, they’ll erode the very reasons people visit in the first place.

This is where sustainable tourism in the Canadian Rockies becomes critical—not just for the environment, but for the future of our communities.

What Sustainable Tourism Looks Like in Action

To be truly sustainable, tourism must be planned and managed thoughtfully. Here are key elements that every destination should adopt:

1. Smart Zoning & Carrying Capacity

Prevent short-term rentals and accommodations from overwhelming residential areas. Set limits on visitor numbers in high-traffic locations like Moraine Lake, just as Parks Canada has done.

2. Fair Taxes & Infrastructure Investment

Ensure tourism-generated revenue supports local services—from waste management to public transit—rather than draining community resources.

3. Community First Policies

Engage locals in decision-making. Regulations should reflect what communities need, not just what tourists want.

4. Support for Local Businesses

Encourage travellers to eat local, shop local, and hire local guides. This keeps dollars circulating in the community.

5. Eco-Conscious Transport

Promote electric shuttles, public transit, and carpooling to cut down on traffic congestion and emissions.

The Triple Bottom Line of Sustainable Tourism

True sustainable tourism balances:

Environmental Protection – Minimizing pollution, conserving habitats, and reducing footprints.
Economic Equity – Creating meaningful jobs, supporting local entrepreneurs, and preventing economic leakage.
Social & Cultural Wellbeing – Preserving heritage, respecting traditions, and keeping communities livable for residents.

When done right, sustainable tourism doesn’t just protect what we love—it enhances it.

Benefits of Sustainable Tourism

Environmental Conservation: Sustainable tourism practices prioritize the preservation and conservation of natural resources, minimizing negative impacts on ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and delicate environments.
Socio-economic Development: Sustainable tourism empowers local communities by providing economic opportunities, generating employment, and fostering entrepreneurship. By supporting local businesses, hiring local guides, and promoting authentic cultural experiences, tourism can contribute to the social and economic well-being of the host communities, enhancing their quality of life. Its exponential growth provides employment opportunities for youth and women, while offering a fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures and investments.
Cultural Preservation: Sustainable tourism respects and celebrates local cultures, traditions, and heritage. It promotes cultural exchange, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation between tourists and locals.
Education and Awareness: Sustainable tourism encourages educational initiatives, interpretive trails, and visitor centers that provide valuable insights into the natural and cultural significance of destinations. This raises awareness among tourists, fostering a sense of responsibility and encouraging them to make informed choices that have a positive impact on the environment and local communities.
Enhanced Visitor Experiences: Sustainable tourism offers authentic and immersive experiences that go beyond surface-level sightseeing. It allows travellers to connect with Nature, engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, and gain a deeper understanding of the local environment.
Long-term Economic Stability: By embracing sustainable tourism practices, destinations can avoid over-reliance on mass tourism, which can be volatile and unsustainable in the long run. Diversifying tourism offerings, promoting responsible visitor management, and preserving natural and cultural assets can contribute to the long-term economic stability of a region, creating a more resilient and balanced tourism industry.

Sustainable Tourism Activities in the Rockies

The first time that I drove through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, I was stunned by a breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, vibrant green forests, and crystal clear lakes. In order to help preserve this feeling, I decided to take, and promote, a sustainable approach to exploring the Rockies.

Hiking: The Rockies are a hiker's paradise, with an abundance of trails that lead to jaw-dropping vistas and breathtaking landscapes.
Camping: Opt for camping to minimize your impact on the environment.
Biking: Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the picturesque mountain roads and trails to reduce your carbon footprint.
Hot springs: Soak in the rejuvenating mineral waters of the many natural hot springs in the Rockies. These are often located in protected areas, so ensure to follow the rules and regulations.
Eating Local: This practice involves consuming locally sourced food and supporting regional producers, farmers, and artisans.

Learning from Other Destinations

Destinations across Europe are taking bold steps. In Malta, new regulations aim to curb the impact of short-term rentals. Cities like Amsterdam, Paris, and Valencia have followed suit—proving that smart, community-focused tourism policies are not only possible but essential.

Canada must follow with equal ambition. As we recover from global disruptions, this is our chance to reset and prioritize regenerative and sustainable tourism models from coast to coast.

What You Can Do as a Traveller

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a seasonal adventure, your choices matter.

Here’s how to practice sustainable tourism in the Rockies:

Plan ahead – Check trail closures, visitor limits, and weather.
Leave no trace – Pack out all garbage (including food waste).
Stay on trails – Prevent erosion and protect habitats.
Carpool or use shuttles – Especially in busy parks like Banff.
Choose eco-friendly stays – Look for Green Key or LEED-certified accommodations.
Buy local – From restaurants to artisans, support local economy and culture.
Respect wildlife – Observe from a distance. Never feed animals.

The Path Forward

If tourism is to remain a force for good, it must evolve. That means bold policies, responsible practices, and a collective shift in mindset—from both travellers and tourism professionals.

Sustainable tourism is not just about preserving natural beauty. It’s about ensuring that beauty is woven into the lives of the people who call these places home.

Let’s travel in a way that keeps the Rockies wild, communities vibrant, and future generations inspired.

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