A hiker had a frightening encounter with a charging grizzly bear near Troll Falls in Kananaskis Country, prompting a bear warning in the area. The bear came within a meter of the hiker on Monday, resulting in the implementation of a bear warning for an unspecified period.
The warning encompasses Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park and Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area, including popular trails like Stoney Trail, Skogan Pass Trail, and Hay Meadow Trail near Kananaskis Village. The advisory emphasized the potential for bear encounters despite the warning.
John Clarke, a former conservation officer in Kananaskis Country, highlighted the importance of carrying bear spray and knowing how to react when encountering wildlife. He explained the various behaviors bears may exhibit, such as running away, staying put, climbing a tree, or following individuals.
Bears are currently seeking food after emerging from hibernation in late April, focusing on foraging to replenish their energy. Clarke noted that bears in well-visited areas like K-Country, Banff, and Jasper are more accustomed to human presence due to frequent interactions with visitors.
To enhance safety, the warning advises making noise while hiking, traveling in groups, keeping pets on leashes, carrying bear spray, and storing food in bear-resistant containers. Any wildlife sightings or incidents can be reported to 403-591-7755.
Despite attempts to contact the Ministry of Forestry and Parks by CBC News, no response was received at the time of publication. Last summer, a bear warning encompassed all of Kananaskis Country, marking the first Kananaskis-wide bear warning since 2016.