The segment within Banff National Park is maintained by the Government of Canada,[2] and within Red Deer limits the city has jurisdiction and is responsible for maintenance.

[3] Beyond Banff National Park, the highway parallels the North Saskatchewan River and traverses the sparsely populated Rocky Mountains Forest Reserve.

Continuing east, the highway passes Alhambra, Condor, Eckville, and Benalto before bypassing Sylvan Lake and entering the City of Red Deer.

At 55 Street, Highway 11 turns east and exits Red Deer, for a total length of 10 km (6.2 mi) within the city.

Traffic levels on Highway 11 have gradually increased west of Red Deer, resulting in multiple studies by Alberta Transportation for long-term planning of upgrades to the route.

Red Deer is also constructing the North Highway Connector, also known as Northland Drive, which will serve as a northern bypass.

[17] Howse Pass is also designated as a National Historic Site which further protects the area from development and as a result it is unlikely that the highway will be constructed.