**
As spring unfolds in Alberta, an uptick in bear encounters has prompted wildlife officials to urge caution among those venturing into the province’s mountain parks. With bears emerging from hibernation, they are actively seeking food, leading to heightened interactions with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bear Activity Rises in Mountain Parks
Nick de Ruyter, the director of WildSmart at the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, highlights the significance of this seasonal behaviour. “During spring, bears are awakening after five to six months in their dens, and they are incredibly hungry,” he explained. “As the snow melts at higher elevations, food sources like green grass and dandelions become accessible in the valley bottoms, attracting bears to areas populated by humans.”
Recent warnings have been issued in Banff National Park, particularly for the Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes trails, as well as the Twin Lake campground. These alerts followed concerning behaviour from a cinnamon-coloured black bear that closely approached and followed a hiker. Similarly, Kananaskis Country has seen several trail closures, including the Terrace Trail and Kovach Ski Trails due to numerous bear sightings, some involving mothers with cubs.
Safety Precautions for Outdoor Activities
With more visitors heading into the mountains, the risk of bear interactions increases. De Ruyter advises that individuals planning to hike should remain vigilant. “Right now, bears are attracted to easily accessible food sources, such as dandelions and grass found near roads, trails, and campgrounds,” he noted. “It is crucial that we respect their feeding areas and keep our distance.”
To ensure safety, de Ruyter recommends checking trail warnings and closures before heading out. He also emphasises the importance of carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it correctly. “Always keep bear spray within reach—ideally in a hip or chest holster—rather than stowing it in your backpack,” he cautioned.
When hiking, making noise to alert bears to your presence is essential. “Using your voice is far more effective than bear bells,” de Ruyter explained. “Traveling in groups also helps, as the combined noise can deter wildlife. Keeping pets on a leash is vital as well. The key takeaway is to give wild animals their space; if you maintain distance, you are less likely to encounter problems.”
Seasonal Bear Movements and Future Outlook
As summer approaches, bears are expected to migrate to higher elevations. However, as berry season begins, they may return to the valley floors for foraging before gradually moving back up as the berries ripen. This cyclical behaviour underscores the importance of staying informed about bear activity and safety guidelines.
All current warnings and closures for Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country can be found online through the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley.
Why it Matters
The increased bear sightings in Alberta serve as a crucial reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife ecosystems. As outdoor recreation continues to rise in popularity, understanding and respecting the natural behaviours of bears is essential for ensuring safe and harmonious coexistence. By following safety protocols and being aware of their surroundings, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Alberta’s stunning landscapes while minimising risks to both themselves and the bears they may encounter.
