If you are planning to obtain a free 2017 pass to Canada's national parks, be aware that you may want to apply asap in the next few days as the website is under a heavy load. due to the overwhelming demand. I would not be surprised that there will be a limit to the passes and stopped altogether.

Sounds like the campgrounds will be very crowded for 2017.

You still have to pay for campsites. The free pass is to allow you to stop, hike, etc. within park boundaries.This from the PC Website about them being overloaded with traffic:"Parks Canada is thrilled that so many Canadians are excited for Canada150 and the free souvenir 2017 Parks Canada Discovery Pass. Due to the exceptionally high volume of Discovery Pass online orders, you may experience delays in accessing the site.We wish to remind those who are trying to order their pass online that this is not a limited time offer and encourage you to come back and try again later."

I got mine yesterday, but the whole process took about 2 hrs. I was surprised the site didn't just kick me out, due to volume. It does look as if those Parks will be operating at capacity, so it's advisable to reserve a spot or two asap. This, assuming you already know your plans next summer (or whenever).

KrowNB wrote:You still have to pay for campsites. The free pass is to allow you to stop, hike, etc. within park boundaries.Exactly. Reading through some comments on news websites, many are not aware of this and will be in for a rude awakening when they arrive at the park and find they still need to shell out money for their campsites.

When I heard that the parks were free in 2017, I assumed that we could just go to the park and drive in. Why bother with a free pass. If it is free, it is free. Why do we need proof?Now I have to get in line to get a pass. I will wait until the rush is over.

Demand for free 2017 passes overwhelms Parks Canada website

Gjac
Explorer III
Jan 13, 2017
Can't you get the free pass when you stop at the park? Or is it required to get it on line?
ford-willy
Explorer
Jan 12, 2017
63-Coupe wrote:
So just to give you an idea of how long it takes, I applied Dec. 4 and mine arrived in the mail today, Dec. 23. I assume international mail will be slower.

I am still trying to figure out though why they went to all the expense and trouble to issue paases. Why not just let everyone in for free? Does it really matter whether or not there is a pass hanging from my mirror?

My pass confirmation email is dated Dec. 3. So its Jan. 12 now and I still have not received it here in commiefornia. So as you posted, international mail is slower or I have a problem.
NCWriter
Explorer
Jan 12, 2017
I booked some campsites this week, and at the end, there is a page that encourages people to apply for the free pass (so they are still happily processing them, apparently)...and it adds language that if you are camping within three weeks, just get your pass when you arrive at the park.

So I'm also wondering why they don't just let everyone in free, no passes needed.
63-Coupe
Explorer
Dec 23, 2016
So just to give you an idea of how long it takes, I applied Dec. 4 and mine arrived in the mail today, Dec. 23. I assume international mail will be slower.

I am still trying to figure out though why they went to all the expense and trouble to issue paases. Why not just let everyone in for free? Does it really matter whether or not there is a pass hanging from my mirror?
Crowe
Explorer
Dec 23, 2016
She also said if you have a 2016 pass it will be honored in 2017, so you do not need to reapply.

Maybe I should sell my 2016 pass to the highest bidder! :B
NCWriter
Explorer
Dec 23, 2016
I stumbled on this thread and applied since we will be in the Canadian Rockies next summer. Took just a few minutes, very fast, so I guess the website timing was good. Everyone else must be traveling, shopping, wrapping presents, or cooking.
pirlbeck
Explorer
Dec 07, 2016
My wife applied for our pass this evening. The site was slow but she was able to get it completed. She said it took over an hour to complete......she just set her IPAD down and watched TV while waiting for the different screens. The pass will be sent in several weeks by 1st class mail......all free.

She also said if you have a 2016 pass it will be honored in 2017, so you do not need to reapply.
ford-willy
Explorer
Dec 06, 2016
gmctoyman wrote:
Are these passes required per individual, or per vehicle?

Per vehicle.
gmctoyman
Explorer
Dec 06, 2016
Are these passes required per individual, or per vehicle?
hone_eagle
Explorer
Dec 04, 2016
Have a great visit