A notable rise in bear sightings across Alberta’s mountain parks has led wildlife specialists to urge backcountry visitors to exercise caution in bear territory. With bears emerging from hibernation and actively searching for food, the risk of encounters is heightened, particularly in popular recreational areas.
Spring Awakening: Bears on the Move
As the snow melts and warmer temperatures settle in the valleys, bears are becoming increasingly visible. Nick de Ruyter, the director of WildSmart at the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, emphasised the importance of awareness during this period. “At springtime, all the bears just got out of their dens after five to six months of hibernation, and they’re hungry, looking for food,” he noted. The bears are drawn to the lush vegetation found in valley bottoms, where human activity is also concentrated.
In Banff National Park, authorities issued a bear warning on Tuesday for Boom, Arnica, and Twin Lakes trails, as well as the Twin Lake campground. This action followed an incident where a cinnamon-coloured black bear exhibited alarming behaviour by approaching and following a hiker, prompting immediate concern for public safety.
Closures and Precautions in Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis Country is also experiencing an uptick in bear activity, leading to several trail closures and warnings. Trails such as the Terrace and Kovach Ski Trails in Spray Lakes Provincial Park have been impacted. Moreover, warnings have been issued for the Heart Creek Trail, Heart Creek Bunker Trail, and the Trans Canada Trail, where multiple bear sightings, including mothers with cubs, have been reported.
With the influx of outdoor enthusiasts coinciding with bears’ search for food, de Ruyter highlighted the predictable nature of these encounters. “The easiest food they’re keying on is green grass and dandelions, which are often found along roads, trails, campgrounds, parks, and even backyards,” he explained. It is crucial for both bears and humans that these animals are left undisturbed while they forage.
Essential Safety Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For those planning to explore the backcountry, de Ruyter provided vital safety advice. “Check for trail warnings and closures—there are numerous alerts out there,” he stated. He stressed the importance of carrying bear spray, ensuring users know how to operate it and keeping it on their person rather than stowed away in a backpack.
Furthermore, making one’s presence known in bear territory is essential. “When you’re on the trail, creating noise is key, and hiking in groups is advisable. Using your voice—‘Hey-oh!’—is more effective than bear bells, which often aren’t loud enough,” de Ruyter advised. Keeping pets leashed and maintaining a respectful distance from wildlife is paramount. “If you don’t approach a bear, you won’t have issues with one,” he added.
Bear Behaviour Through the Seasons
As the season progresses towards summer, bears will gradually move to higher elevations. However, they will return to the valley bottoms during berry season, following the ripening fruit back up into the mountains as summer continues. For those interested in tracking bear activity, the latest closures and warnings for both Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country can be found on the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley’s website.
Why it Matters
The rise in bear encounters underscores the delicate balance between wildlife and human activity, particularly in Alberta’s stunning natural landscapes. As more people venture into these areas, understanding and respecting the behaviours of bears is critical for ensuring both human safety and the well-being of these magnificent creatures. By adopting cautious practices, we can enjoy the great outdoors while protecting the environment and its inhabitants.
