'Stupidest idea': Visitors upset by BC Parks plans for updated day pass system
BC Parks has revealed plans to update its day-use pass reservation system in a move to “strengthen security and improve distribution of the passes,” but many visitors say that the changes are not enough.
The government agency responsible for managing provincial parks and recreation areas posted that, starting Tuesday, Sept. 22, users will need to create a verified account before booking a day-use pass.
According to BC Parks, the new registration process and additional security measures are being put in place to help stop misuse and interference from digital bots.
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“This updated system helps ensure passes are reserved by real people and distributed more fairly during periods of high demand,” said BC Parks online.
“Accounts also make it easier for people to view, manage, and cancel their reservations.”
BC Parks added that day passes will be available online starting at 7 a.m. two days before a planned visit.
Many users of the province’s parks shared their displeasure with the announcement, stating that the change did not go far enough.
“Those who can not use a computer are not allowed to use B.C. parks. That’s how this post read,” said one commenter on the public notice.
“A person who doesn’t use the computer will have to take time off work and go into the office to book hiking or camping. That is weird in today’s age of AI onslaught. Such a silly system, but at least we have a system, no matter how unfair it is.”
Skyview Campground (BC Parks)
“Thanks for addressing that, but the 7 a.m. race issue is still not fully eliminated,” added another. “It just put an additional step that could be bypassed as soon as someone creates a bunch of ‘verified’ accounts.”
“So after some time we will still race at 7 a.m. against the bunch of bots, but this time with ‘verified’ accounts.”
BC Parks explained that day-use passes have helped manage the number of peak-season visitors in Golden Ears, Joffre Lakes, Garibaldi, and Mount Seymour parks.
“The passes help prevent congested parking lots, roads, trails and viewpoints, and help reduce the effects on the environment,” said the provincial government agency.
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Day-use passes are required at the Cheakamus, Rubble and Diamond Head trailheads in Garibaldi Park from Friday through Monday and on holidays, until Monday, Oct. 12.
Passes for visits to Joffre Lakes Park will resume on Thursday, Oct. 1, and are required for each day until Sunday, Oct. 25.
Visitors can create a BC Parks account using a BC Services Card account or by using their email address and password.
However, some visitors chimed in that the update does not address the right issues.
“This pass-based system is the stupidest idea,” said a commenter. “Instead of building more capacity with more trails and space for parking, you restrict access to beautiful B.C. (if you can get to it).
“What happens when population increases, and you haven’t spent anything developing better infrastructure and access?”