Concerns about Banff’s beloved wildlife and sensitive environment are being raised just weeks before a big ride takes place within the boundaries of the national park.

A conservation planner with Parks Canada tells The Calgary Herald the scenic route taken by GranFondo Banff is ecologically sensitive and wants the impact on wildlife monitored during the event.

The co-founder and president of the ride says there will be a card system alerting riders if it’s safe to continue.

Up to 1,500 cyclists will start at the Banff town site and take Tunnel Mountain Road to the Lake Minnewanka Loop and the Bow Valley Parkway, before turning around in Lake Louise and back to Banff.

Parks Canada approved the event saying the benefits outweighed the risks.