As spring unfolds, Alberta’s mountain parks are experiencing a surge in bear sightings, leading to multiple trail closures and a heightened awareness among outdoor enthusiasts. Wildlife experts urge visitors to exercise caution as bears emerge from hibernation and seek food in the valley bottoms, where hikers are likely to encounter them.
Rising Bear Encounters
Nick de Ruyter, Director of WildSmart at the Biosphere of the Bow Valley, highlights the seasonal dynamics at play. “During spring, bears are waking up after months in their dens, and they are very hungry,” he explained. With lingering snow at higher elevations and an abundance of food in lower areas, bears are drawn to locations where human activities are prevalent, such as trails and campgrounds.
Recently, Banff National Park issued a bear warning for the Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes trails, as well as the Twin Lake campground. This precaution followed an incident where a cinnamon-coloured black bear exhibited alarming behaviour by closely approaching a hiker.
Trail Closures and Warnings
The situation is similar in Kananaskis Country, where multiple closures and warnings have been enacted. Trails such as the Terrace Trail and Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park are now off-limits, and alerts have been issued for the Heart Creek Trail and the Trans Canada Trail due to frequent sightings of black bears, some accompanied by cubs.
De Ruyter notes that the increasing number of hikers in the region coincides with bears searching for easy meals. “The green grass and dandelions they crave are often found along roads and trails, which are also frequented by people,” he said, emphasising the importance of respecting wildlife feeding patterns.
Safety Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For those planning to venture into the backcountry, de Ruyter offers several crucial tips. Firstly, it’s essential to check for current trail warnings and closures before heading out. He strongly advises carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it properly, ensuring it is easily accessible rather than stored in a backpack.
Additionally, making noise while hiking can help deter bears. “Using your voice is far more effective than bear bells,” de Ruyter recommends. Hiking in groups can also increase safety, as more people generate more noise, making encounters with wildlife less likely.
Above all, visitors should maintain a safe distance from bears. “If you don’t approach a bear, you won’t face issues,” he stated, advising that a distance of at least 100 metres—approximately ten school bus lengths—should be kept.
The Seasonal Shift of Bear Behaviour
As summer approaches, bears will gradually move to higher elevations, but the urge to return to lower areas for food will occur during berry season. De Ruyter explains that this pattern will continue as the bears follow the ripening berries back up into the mountains later in the summer months.
Up-to-date information regarding warnings and trail closures in both Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country can be found online at the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley.
Why it Matters
The rise in bear encounters amid increased outdoor activity underscores the delicate balance between human recreation and wildlife conservation. As more individuals explore Alberta’s stunning landscapes, awareness and respect for the natural behaviours of wildlife are paramount. By taking appropriate precautions, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the beauty of the backcountry while ensuring both their safety and the well-being of Alberta’s bears. Understanding this relationship is crucial for sustainable outdoor practices, especially in a region where nature and human life intersect so closely.
