As the spring season unfolds, Alberta’s mountain parks are witnessing a notable surge in bear sightings, alarming both wildlife experts and outdoor enthusiasts. With bears emerging from their dens in search of food, authorities are issuing urgent warnings for backcountry visitors to exercise caution.
Bear Activity on the Rise
Nick de Ruyter, the WildSmart director at the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, emphasised the current state of bear behaviour. “At springtime, all the bears just got out of their dens after five to six months of hibernation, and they’re hungry. They’re looking for food,” he explained. The bears are particularly drawn to the valley bottoms, where vegetation is lush and accessible, making these areas hotspots for potential encounters with humans.
In Banff National Park, a bear warning was recently issued for the Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes trails, as well as the Twin Lake campground. This alert followed an incident in which a cinnamon-coloured black bear exhibited concerning behaviour by closely approaching and following a hiker.
Closures and Alerts in Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis Country has also seen its share of closures and warnings. Areas including the Terrace Trail and Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park have been affected, with alerts for the Heart Creek Trail and Trans Canada Trail due to numerous black bear sightings, some involving cubs, near the trails.
As more individuals venture into the wilderness during this time of year, the combination of bear activity and human presence heightens the risk of encounters. De Ruyter noted that the bears are primarily drawn to green grass and dandelions, which are abundant along roads, trails, campgrounds, and even residential backyards. “That’s pretty typical for this time of year, so it is just really crucial that they are left undisturbed to feed,” he added.
Safety Measures for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For anyone planning to explore the backcountry, de Ruyter urged caution. He recommended checking for trail warnings and closures before heading out. “Make sure you buy bear spray, make sure you know how to use it, and carry it on your person,” he advised, emphasising that it should not be stored in backpacks.
Making noise while hiking is also critical. De Ruyter suggested using human voices over bear bells, citing their ineffectiveness. “When you get to the trail, things like making noise are key and going in a group, ideally,” he stated. He also highlighted the importance of keeping pets on leashes and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife.
“If you don’t get close to a bear, you’re not going to have a problem with a bear,” he concluded, urging hikers to respect the animals’ space.
Seasonal Bear Behaviour
As summer approaches, bears will gradually ascend to higher elevations. However, they will return to the valley bottoms during berry season, following the ripening fruits back up the mountains later in the summer. This cyclical movement underscores the necessity for outdoor enthusiasts to remain vigilant, especially during peak bear activity periods.
For the latest information on warnings and closures in Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country, visitors can access updates through the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley.
Why it Matters
The increase in bear sightings in Alberta’s mountain parks serves as a crucial reminder of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife. As outdoor activities rise with the warmer weather, understanding bear behaviour and exercising caution is essential for both personal safety and the well-being of these magnificent creatures. By respecting wildlife habitats and staying informed, we can help ensure that our outdoor experiences remain safe and harmonious with nature.