As spring unfolds across Alberta, a noticeable uptick in bear sightings has prompted wildlife officials to issue urgent safety reminders for those venturing into the province’s scenic mountain parks. With bears emerging from hibernation and actively foraging for food, the potential for human-wildlife encounters has heightened, particularly in popular outdoor areas such as Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country.
Bears on the Move
Nick de Ruyter, the director of WildSmart at the Biosphere of the Bow Valley, emphasises the urgency of the situation. “As the bears come out of their dens after several months, they are hungry and searching for food,” he explained. With snow still lingering at higher altitudes, bears are gravitating towards the valley bottoms where the first signs of spring vegetation, like green grass and dandelions, are abundant.
This seasonal behaviour not only draws bears to the valleys but also increases the likelihood of encounters with hikers and campers, who are now flocking to the mountains as warmer weather sets in.
Trail Closures and Warnings
In response to recent bear activity, authorities have issued several trail warnings and closures. On Tuesday, a bear warning was activated for multiple trails in Banff National Park, including Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes, following reports of a cinnamon-coloured black bear exhibiting concerning behaviour by closely trailing hikers. Similarly, Kananaskis Country has seen trail closures, notably the Terrace Trail and the Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park, along with warnings for the Heart Creek Trail and the Trans Canada Trail, where several black bears—with some accompanied by cubs—have been sighted.
As the bear population seeks out food sources near trails and campgrounds, experts stress the importance of maintaining a safe distance. De Ruyter advises that keeping at least 100 metres—or approximately ten school bus lengths—away from bears is critical for personal safety.
Safety Recommendations for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For those planning to explore these beautiful but potentially hazardous areas, de Ruyter offers several practical safety tips. First and foremost, he urges visitors to check for current trail warnings and closures before heading out. Additionally, carrying bear spray is essential; it should be readily accessible, preferably in a holster on your person, rather than tucked away in a backpack.
Creating noise while hiking can also be an effective deterrent against surprise encounters with bears. De Ruyter suggests that vocalisations—like a simple “Hey-oh!”—are more effective than traditional bear bells, which may not carry sufficiently in dense forest.
“Being in a group can also help,” he noted, as the collective noise and presence can be intimidating to wildlife. Keeping pets leashed is also crucial to avoid attracting bears.
Seasonal Bear Behaviour
As bear activity peaks in spring, experts predict that over the coming weeks, bears will gradually ascend to higher elevations as they continue to forage. Once berry season arrives, they will descend to valley bottoms again, following the ripening fruit back up to the heights later in the summer.
For the latest updates on warnings and closures in Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country, outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley’s website.
Why it Matters
The rise in bear sightings serves as a critical reminder of the delicate balance between human recreation and wildlife conservation. As more people seek to enjoy the great outdoors, understanding and respecting the natural behaviours of Alberta’s wildlife becomes increasingly important. By prioritising safety and maintaining a respectful distance from these magnificent creatures, both visitors and bears can coexist peacefully in the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
