Several closures or restrictions have been put in place in Banff National Park to give grizzly bears more space and security.
The annual trail closure for Upper Bryant Creek and the seasonal trail restriction for Allenby Pass are now in effect and will run until Sept. 30. Cyclists are temporarily banned from the Tramline in Lake Louise and there’s a warning in place for other trails in the area.
“It’s to increase public safety and to minimize displacement of grizzly bears from prime food sources at a critical time of the year,” said Christina Tricomi, a spokesperson for Banff National Park.
The Upper Bryant Valley is closed, with no access allowed on Og Pass Trail and Upper Assiniboine Pass trail. Hikers are allowed to access Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park through Banff National Park via the lower Assiniboine Pass trail or the Wonder Pass trail.
As for Allenby Pass, the seasonal trail restriction for horse riders and hikers is now in place. That means hikers must be in tight groups of four or more adults, it’s mandatory to carry bear spray, horse riders must be in a group of two or more and dogs are banned.
In Lake Louise, the Tramline Trail is closed to cyclists where at least two grizzly bears have been feasting on abundant buffalo berries, a calorie-rich food source for bears at this time of year.
There’s a warning for hikers on the Tramline, as well as a bear warning for the Bow River Trail, Louise Creek Trail and Lake Louise campground.
“The Tramline is closed to cyclists because of the higher potential for a negative encounter,” said Tania Peters, a spokesperson for Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay, noting the speed and quietness of cyclists put them at risk for sudden bear encounters.
“We have an abundant buffalo berry crop and we will put in temporary closures if required.”
Parks Canada advises people to make noise while hiking, keep all pets on a leash, carry bear spray and know how to use it, and maintain a safe distance between you and any bear.
Report all bear sightings immediately to park visitor centres or Banff dispatch at 403-762-1470.
Anyone caught violating closures or restrictions could face a fine of up to $25,000 in court.
