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Wildlife experts in Alberta are urging outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution as bear sightings surge in the province’s mountain parks. With bears emerging from hibernation in search of food, the risk of encounters is heightened, particularly in popular hiking areas.
Understanding Bear Behaviour in Spring
As spring unfolds, bears emerge from their dens after months of dormancy, driven by hunger as they seek nourishment. Nick de Ruyter, the director of WildSmart at the Biosphere of the Bow Valley, emphasised that this season brings bears into the valley bottoms where food sources such as fresh grass and dandelions are readily available. “With snow still blanketing higher elevations and the climate improving in the valleys, bears are naturally drawn to these areas, which coincide with where people frequently venture,” de Ruyter explained.
This year, Banff National Park has seen a notable uptick in bear activity, leading to warnings for several trails, including Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes. A recent incident involving a cinnamon-coloured black bear approaching a hiker has prompted heightened vigilance around Twin Lake campground and its surroundings.
Trail Closures and Warnings
In Kananaskis Country, numerous trail closures and warnings have been issued due to increased bear sightings. Trails such as the Terrace and Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park are now off-limits, alongside advisories for Heart Creek Trail and the Trans Canada Trail, where black bears, including mothers with cubs, have been spotted nearby. The alerts are a timely reminder of the need for caution as more hikers take to the trails.
The interaction between bears and humans is not merely a matter of chance; it is a consequence of seasonal behaviours. “As people flock to the mountains in search of adventure, the bears are out foraging for food, leading to an increase in sightings,” said de Ruyter.
Safety Measures for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For those planning to explore the backcountry, de Ruyter offers essential advice. First and foremost, hikers should stay informed about trail warnings and closures. He recommends investing in bear spray, ensuring it is accessible—ideally carried in a holster rather than tucked away in a backpack.
Making noise while hiking is crucial. “Using your voice is far more effective than bear bells,” de Ruyter stated. Engaging in conversation or using loud calls can help alert wildlife to your presence, reducing the likelihood of surprise encounters. Group hiking is also advisable, as larger parties tend to create more noise and are more intimidating to wildlife.
Keeping pets leashed is another important precaution. “If you maintain a safe distance from bears, you are unlikely to encounter any problems,” de Ruyter added, suggesting a minimum distance of 100 metres—approximately the length of ten school buses—between hikers and bears.
Seasonal Bear Movement Patterns
Throughout the spring months and leading into summer, bears typically migrate to higher elevations. However, as berry season approaches, they will return to the valleys, following the ripening of berries back up into the mountains later in the summer. This cyclical movement pattern highlights the importance of staying alert and informed throughout the season.
All current warnings and closures for Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country can be accessed online through the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley.
Why it Matters
The increase in bear sightings serves as a vital reminder of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife in Alberta’s mountainous regions. As outdoor activities rise, maintaining awareness and respect for wildlife is crucial not only for personal safety but also for the preservation of these magnificent creatures. Understanding bear behaviour and adhering to safety protocols can significantly reduce the risk of dangerous encounters and contribute to a harmonious coexistence in shared habitats.
