As the warmer weather draws more visitors to Alberta’s breathtaking mountain parks, wildlife officials are raising alerts about an uptick in bear sightings and the subsequent trail closures. This spring, bears emerging from hibernation are on the hunt for food, leading to heightened interactions with backcountry enthusiasts. Nick de Ruyter, the director of WildSmart at the Biosphere of the Bow Valley, emphasises the importance of caution as bears venture into areas where humans recreate.
Springtime Bear Activity
Spring marks a critical period for bear behaviour, with many of these creatures awakening from months of dormancy in search of sustenance. “At springtime, you know, all the bears just got out of their dens after five to six months of laying in their dens and they’re hungry, they’re looking for food,” explained de Ruyter. With snow lingering at higher elevations and food sources readily available in valley bottoms, bears are increasingly spotted near trails and campgrounds.
On Tuesday, Banff National Park issued a warning due to a cinnamon-coloured black bear displaying concerning behaviour by closely trailing a hiker around Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes trails. This follows a series of similar warnings throughout the region, including Kananaskis Country, where several trails such as the Heart Creek Trail and Kovach Ski Trails have been temporarily closed due to bear sightings, some involving mothers with cubs.
Trail Closures and Bear Safety
The surge of bear encounters coincides with the influx of hikers eager to explore the natural beauty of the Alberta wilderness. De Ruyter remarked, “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.”
To ensure the safety of both bears and humans, de Ruyter urges outdoor enthusiasts to remain vigilant. He recommends checking updated trail warnings and closures before setting out. “Make sure you buy bear spray, make sure you know how to use it and carry it on your person,” he added, highlighting the importance of accessibility during encounters.
Tips for Safe Outdoor Adventures
De Ruyter offers practical advice for anyone venturing into bear territory. Making noise while hiking, travelling in groups, and keeping dogs leashed are all effective strategies to minimise the risk of an encounter. “When you get on the trail, things like making noise are key and going in a group, ideally. I use the human voice — ‘Hey-oh!’ — much better than things like bear bells,” he noted.
He strongly encourages hikers to maintain a safe distance from bears, suggesting at least 100 metres—roughly 10 school bus lengths—between humans and wildlife. “If you don’t get close to a bear, you’re not going to have a problem with a bear,” he reassured.
Seasonal Movement of Bears
As summer approaches, bears will gradually ascend to higher elevations, but they will return to valley bottoms during berry season, following the ripening of fruit. The cycle of bear behaviour is crucial for understanding their movement patterns and ensuring safety for both wildlife and humans in the region.
For continuous updates on trail warnings and closures, visitors can access information through the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, which actively monitors bear activity in the area.
Why it Matters
The surge in bear sightings in Alberta’s mountain parks highlights the delicate balance between human recreation and wildlife conservation. As more people explore these natural landscapes, understanding bear behaviour and practising safety measures is paramount. In a world where human encroachment on natural habitats is ever-increasing, fostering coexistence with wildlife is crucial not only for the safety of outdoor enthusiasts but also for the preservation of these majestic creatures.