A seasonal trail restriction is now in effect for the Lake Minnewanka area and surrounding trails in Banff National Park, due to a high concentration of female grizzly bears and cubs feeding on ripe buffaloberries.
The restriction, which runs from July 10 to Sept. 15, applies to the Lake Minnewanka Trail (from Stewart Canyon Bridge to the East Park Boundary), Aylmer Pass Trail, and Aylmer Lookout Trail.
Parks Canada says the area is located on the edge of one of three “core areas” for grizzly bears in the park. These zones contain critical bear habitat and are frequented by female grizzlies raising their young.
“All hiking parties must travel in a minimum group size of four,” Parks Canada stated. “The maximum distance between two individuals must not exceed three metres and should be less when sight or hearing is reduced by the physical surroundings.”
Bear spray must be carried and readily accessible at all times. This is mandatory under the National Parks Regulations.
Cycling and dogs are both prohibited beyond Stewart Canyon Bridge.
Campers staying at backcountry sites Lm9, Lm11, Lm20 and Lm22 must be in groups of four or more. The Lm8 campground is closed for the duration of the restriction.
The agency says the measures are aimed at preventing surprise encounters with bears during a sensitive feeding period. “Surprise bear encounters involving cyclists and hikers have occurred along the Minnewanka Trail,” the advisory states.
Buffaloberries, which grow in abundance in the area, ripen from mid-July through September and are a vital food source for grizzlies. Grouseberries follow and can last well into October.
“Grizzly bears on the Eastern Slopes of the Rockies are food-stressed and depend heavily on berries to put on weight for hibernation,” the park warns. “In order for grizzly bears to store enough fat reserves, they eat up to 250,000 buffaloberries per day.”
Between 1998 and 2005, five bear attacks occurred in two core areas of the park — Allenby Pass and the Aylmer Pass Trail — all involving surprise encounters with female grizzlies with cubs. All incidents involved individuals or small hiking parties.
Non-compliance with the seasonal restriction may result in charges under the National Parks Regulations, with a maximum fine of $25,000.
Parks Canada says it is committed to maintaining a viable grizzly bear population and that limiting disturbance during critical feeding periods is key to ensuring female survival.
Visitors are encouraged to check current trail conditions and wildlife updates online.
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