As berry season kicks off in Banff National Park, Parks Canada is urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant about bear activity in the area. Black and grizzly bears are currently focused on feeding on berries, which can make them more likely to have surprise encounters with humans.
To mitigate risks, park authorities recommend several precautionary measures for those exploring the area. Making noise while hiking and traveling in groups are crucial steps in avoiding unexpected bear encounters.
The berry season coincides with increased bear activity throughout the park. This heightened activity has prompted officials to issue specific warnings for certain areas. A bear warning is currently in effect for the Lake Louise vicinity, including parking lots, the Day Use Area Lakeshore Trail, and the Fairview Lookout Trail, following recent grizzly bear sightings.
Parks Canada has implemented closures in other areas of the park. The LM8 Campground has been closed to all users until mid-September.
According to an article published by Discover Airdrie on July 18, the bear activity is not limited to Banff National Park. Bear warnings and closures are also in effect in Kananaskis Country, commonly known as K-Country. Alberta Parks officials emphasized that bears can be encountered anywhere in the Kananaskis Region at any time.
Several bear warnings have been issued in K-Country. Rawson Lake Trail and Basin, including Sarrail Ridge, is closed due to grizzly bears frequenting the area. The Kananaskis Country Golf Course, including its parking lots, Club House, maintenance compound, and other buildings, is under a bear warning as multiple black and grizzly bears have been spotted in the area.
Additionally, a section of the High Rockies Trail, from the Goat Pond Dam to Spray Lakes West Campground, is also under a bear warning. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and adhere to all closures and warnings to ensure their safety.
Banff National Park offers activities such as back-country camping, bird watching, canoeing, camping, cross-country skiing, cycling, dog walking, downhill skiing, hot springs, motorboating, mountain climbing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, ice climbing, ice skating, kayaking, mountain biking, and more.
