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As the spring season unfolds, Alberta’s mountain parks are witnessing a notable rise in bear sightings, leading wildlife experts to urge backcountry visitors to exercise caution. With bears emerging from hibernation in search of food, the overlap between human activities and wildlife habitats has heightened the risk of encounters in popular recreational areas.
Spring Awakening: Bears on the Move
Nick de Ruyter, the director of WildSmart at the Biosphere of the Bow Valley, highlights the urgency of this issue. “At springtime, bears emerge from their dens after five to six months of dormancy, and they’re famished, actively seeking out food,” he explains. The transition from snowy highlands to fertile valley floors has drawn bears into areas frequented by hikers and campers, where food sources like fresh grass and dandelions are abundant.
In Banff National Park, a bear warning was issued this week for several trails, including Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes. A cinnamon-coloured black bear exhibited concerning behaviour by approaching and following a hiker too closely. Similarly, Kananaskis Country has seen multiple warnings and trail closures, particularly affecting the Terrace Trail and Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park, where sightings of black bears and their cubs have been reported.
Navigating Bear Country Safely
With the influx of outdoor enthusiasts and the bears’ quest for nourishment, de Ruyter notes that the increase in sightings is expected. He cautions visitors to be aware of their surroundings and to prioritise safety. “The easiest food for bears to find right now is often located along roads, trails, campgrounds, and even backyards,” he warns. “It’s crucial that bears are allowed to feed undisturbed.”
To ensure safety while exploring the backcountry, de Ruyter offers several practical tips. First, he advises checking for trail warnings and closures before heading out. Additionally, he stresses the importance of carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it effectively. “Always keep bear spray within reach—never store it in your backpack. A hip or chest holster is ideal,” he suggests.
Awareness of noise is also vital. De Ruyter recommends making your presence known by vocalising rather than relying on bear bells, which are often insufficiently loud. “Going in groups is beneficial; the more noise you make, the more intimidating you are to wildlife,” he advises. Keeping pets on leashes and maintaining a safe distance from bears—at least 100 metres—are further essential precautions.
Seasonal Bear Behaviour
As summer approaches, bears will gradually ascend to higher elevations, seeking cooler habitats. However, as berry season commences, they may return to valley bottoms, following the ripening berries back up the slopes later in the summer. This cyclical behaviour reinforces the importance of respecting wildlife spaces during peak activity periods.
For the latest updates on warnings and closures in Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country, the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley provides comprehensive resources online.
Why it Matters
The increase in bear encounters is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between human recreation and wildlife conservation. As more people venture into Alberta’s stunning landscapes, it becomes ever more crucial to respect and protect these habitats. By observing safety guidelines and promoting awareness, we can ensure that both visitors and bears coexist harmoniously, preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the region for generations to come.
