Banff National Park authorities announced the closure of Rampart Campground to tents and tent trailers due to bear sightings near campers. The closure, effective until further notice, is part of measures taken to ensure visitor safety amid increasing wildlife activity.
Parks Canada stated that “anything with an odor or that could be considered food may attract wildlife to campsites.” Visitors are advised to never leave items like coolers, full or empty, food, garbage, dishes, pet food, and bottles unattended.
In addition to the Rampart Campground closure, a bear warning remains in effect for Lake Minnewanka Loop, where a black bear recently obtained unsecured human food. Officials have recommended special caution in the area, excluding Cascade Ponds and Johnson Lake, urging visitors to keep safe from wildlife encounters.
According to an article published by Discover Airdrie on August 5, park authorities provided instructions to enhance safety. All food, garbage, and scented items should be stored in a vehicle, hard-sided trailer, or bear locker. Fire pits should also not be used to dispose of any waste materials, and proper receptacles must be used for all food and waste disposal.
As berry season begins in Banff, bears are more likely to be seen foraging. The season, which ends in mid-October, calls for increased vigilance from visitors. Earlier warnings for Lake Louise Parking Lots, Day Use Area Lakeshore Trail, and Fairview Lookout Trail remain in effect following grizzly sightings in these areas.
Kananaskis Country (K-Country) has also seen several bear warnings and closures. On August 4, a bear warning was issued for Upper Lake Day Use in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park due to grizzly bear activity. Similarly, the Chester Lake area has been closed because of a grizzly bear frequenting the area with cubs, though this does not affect the High Rockies Trail (HRT).
Alberta Parks officials emphasized that while these closures and warnings are in place, bears can be encountered anywhere within the K-Country region. They advise all visitors to remain cautious and aware of their surroundings.
The King Creek Day Use Area and King Creek Ridge Trail have also been closed after a hiker used bear spray when a grizzly bear with cubs bluff-charged them.
For more information about the closures, visit albertaparks.ca.
