As the spring season unfolds in Alberta, an uptick in bear sightings has led to increased caution for those venturing into the province’s mountain parks. Wildlife experts are urging backcountry visitors to exercise heightened awareness, particularly as bears emerge from hibernation in search of food.
Bears on the Move
Nick de Ruyter, the WildSmart director at the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, emphasised the urgency of the situation, noting that bears are emerging from their dens after months of inactivity. “At springtime, all the bears just got out of their dens after five to six months of laying in their dens and they’re hungry,” de Ruyter explained. With snow still lingering at higher elevations and food sources readily available in the valley bottoms, bears are increasingly drawn to areas frequented by humans.
In Banff National Park, a bear warning was issued this week for popular trails, including Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes, as well as the Twin Lake campground. The alert was triggered by a “cinnamon-coloured black bear exhibiting concerning behaviour” by closely approaching and following a hiker. These encounters highlight the importance of vigilance in areas where human activity intersects with bear habitats.
Specific Warnings and Closures
The situation is similar in Kananaskis Country, where several trails have been closed or placed under warning due to bear sightings. Trails such as the Terrace Trail and Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park, along with the Heart Creek Trail and Trans Canada Trail, have seen numerous reports of black bears, including mothers with cubs, in close proximity to trailheads.
De Ruyter pointed out that as spring progresses, the presence of people in the mountains increases, thereby elevating the likelihood of bear encounters. “So right now the easiest food they’re keying on is that green grass and dandelions, which is often found along roads and highways, trails, campgrounds, parks, playgrounds, backyards — so all those places where we are as people,” he stated. He urged outdoor enthusiasts to respect the bears’ feeding habits and to avoid disturbing them.
Essential Safety Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For those planning to explore the backcountry, de Ruyter offered several crucial safety tips. Visitors should always check for trail warnings and closures before setting out, and he recommended purchasing bear spray, ensuring it is easily accessible and that users are familiar with how to operate it. “Make sure you carry it on your person—hip holster or chest holster belt—and never put it in your backpack,” he advised.
Making noise while hiking is also essential. De Ruyter suggested verbal communication, such as calling out “Hey-oh!” to alert bears of human presence, rather than relying solely on bear bells, which may not be loud enough. Hiking in groups can further amplify noise and create a more intimidating presence for wildlife. Keeping pets on a leash is another important measure to reduce the risk of close encounters with bears.
“If you don’t get close to a bear, you’re not going to have a problem with a bear,” de Ruyter stated, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a safe distance. He recommends allowing at least 100 metres—approximately ten school bus lengths—between hikers and any bears they may encounter.
Seasonal Bear Movement Patterns
As the warmer months approach, bears will gradually ascend to higher elevations. However, they will return to the valley bottoms during berry season, following the ripening berries back up to the mountains later in the summer. This cyclical movement underscores the complex relationship between humans and wildlife in Alberta’s stunning natural landscapes.
Comprehensive information on current warnings and 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 increased bear activity in Alberta’s mountain parks serves as a vital reminder of the delicate balance between human recreation and wildlife conservation. As outdoor enthusiasts flock to these areas, understanding and respecting the natural behaviour of bears is crucial for ensuring the safety of both people and wildlife. By fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness, we can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Alberta’s wilderness while coexisting harmoniously with its magnificent inhabitants.
