Alberta Parks has issued a cougar advisory for the west end of Fish Creek Provincial Park following multiple reports of a juvenile cougar in the area. The advisory affects popular day-use areas in southwest Calgary, including Votier’s Flats, Bebo Grove, Shannon Terrace, and Marshall Springs, and is in place until further notice.
The advisory follows two recent cougar sightings and incidents involving pets. Officials are urging park visitors to take precautionary measures, such as making noise, traveling in groups, keeping pets on leashes, and remaining aware of their surroundings.
Alberta Parks emphasized that cougars can be encountered at any time throughout the Kananaskis Region.
“Although an advisory is in place for this area, cougars can be encountered anywhere in the Kananaskis Region and at any time. To avoid a surprise encounter with a cougar, be aware of your surroundings. Look and listen for cougars and their signs. Keep your pet on a leash,” Alberta Parks said in an advisory.
According to its website, Fish Creek Provincial Park offers a variety of activities and facilities for visitors. Biking is permitted on designated pathways throughout the park, with the exception of the Sikome Aquatic Facility and the area in front of the Bow Valley Ranch Visitor Center.
Birdwatching is a popular activity in the park, with over 200 species of birds observed in the area. Visitors can spot Great Blue Herons along watercourses and see ducks and geese year-round on the Bow River. The park is also home to birds of prey such as bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, Swainson’s hawks, and great horned owls, particularly along the Bow River valley.
Boating is also allowed on the Bow River, with access provided through the Boat Launch Day Use Area, located off Bow Bottom Trail South. Depending on safe access conditions, the boat launch is open from April 1 to October 31. Visitors interested in picnicking will find numerous day-use areas with picnic tables and firepits. However, fires are only allowed in designated firepits, and guests must bring their own firewood.
For larger gatherings, the Glennfield Group Use Areas in Fish Creek Provincial Park can be reserved for day-use between April and October. Reservations begin in January, with rental fees set at CA$90 per day.
Each site includes a large day-use shelter, accessible washrooms, power outlets, potable water, and a dedicated parking lot. While there are no firepits in the shelter areas, visitors may bring their own portable propane fire pits or grills.