Multiple Encounters with Grizzly Bear Prompt Warning in Banff National Park
Rocky Mountain Outlook
Cathy Ellis
BANFF – Several encounters with a grizzly bear in Banff National Park have forced Parks Canada to issue a warning.
The warning applies to Arnica Lake, Vista Lake, Twin Lakes, Gibbon Pass, Shadow Lake and all trails within this area including campgrounds: Re6, Re14, Re16, Re21 and Tw7. The warning area is south of Highway 93 South and does not include Boom Lake.
"An adult grizzly bear is frequenting the area and has had multiple encounters with visitors,” states the bulletin issued by Parks Canada on Monday (Sept. 29).
“Be on the lookout for a grizzly bear with a lower jaw/muzzle deformity from a past injury.”
A spokesperson for Parks Canada was not immediately available.
Parks Canada reminds visitors to carry bear spray and know how to use it; be vigilant, make noise, and watch for fresh bear signs like tracks and droppings; keep a distance of at least 100 meters from bears; keep your clothing, sleeping gear, and tent free of food odors and other scented items.
In addition, all food, pet food, garbage, and anything with odors must always be closely attended, and if not, must be stored in the bear-proof lockers that can be found at campgrounds. Food containers and dishes with residue should be cleaned immediately after use and placed in the bear-proof lockers that can be found at campgrounds.
Keep dogs on a leash and under physical control, and supervise children at all times.
Parks Canada asks that all bear sightings be reported to Banff dispatch at 403-762-1470, including any details of any bear encounters such as bear species, size and color, behavior, presence, color of and number on ear tags or presence of radio-collars, as soon as possible.
In neighboring Kananaskis Country, Alberta Parks closed an area near Mount Shark on Sunday (Sept. 28) until further notice.
The closures applies to Mount Shark ski trails, Karst Springs trail, Watridge Lake shark range, area surrounding Watridge Lake trail from shark parking to the Banff boundary.
The advisory said there have been several reports of a close encounter with a grizzly bear.
“Through traffic should have a minimum group size of four and carry bear spray,” states the closure notice.