A new bear warning has been issued for a string of popular day-use areas along Highway 40 in Kananaskis Country, just ahead of the Heritage Day long weekend.
According to Alberta Parks, a grizzly bear and cub have been frequenting the area “feeding on natural vegetation.”
The warning, issued July 30 and in effect until further notice, applies to Canoe Meadows Day Use and campground, Widowmaker Day Use, the Widowmaker Trail, the Kananaskis Visitor Information Centre, Barrier Dam Day Use, and Barrier Boat Launch Day Use.
“Although an advisory is in place for this area, bears can be encountered anywhere in the Kananaskis Region at any time,” Alberta Parks stated.
“Keep all attractants secure from bears including food, garbage, recycling, pet food and any other scented item,” the advisory added. “Never leave these items unattended.”
Alberta Parks is also reminding visitors to:
– Make plenty of noise and travel in groups
– Be aware of your surroundings and watch for bear signs
– Keep pets leashed at all times
– Carry bear spray, keep it accessible, and know how to use it
All bear sightings should be reported immediately to 403-591-7755.
Trail closure in Banff to protect critical grizzly feeding area
A separate trail closure takes effect today in Banff National Park to protect grizzly bears feeding in the Upper Bryant Creek Valley.
Parks Canada has ordered a full closure of the Og Pass and Upper Assiniboine Pass trails under Section 36(1) of the National Parks General Regulations, citing public safety and wildlife protection.
“To increase public safety, and to minimize displacement of grizzly bears from prime food sources at a critical time of the year,” the agency stated in its July 31 bulletin.
The closure will remain in place until Sept. 30, 2025. Access to Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park remains permitted via the Lower Assiniboine Pass or Wonder Pass trails.
Violators could face a maximum penalty of $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act.
Free Parks Canada admission, camping discounts in effect through Labour Day
The Heritage Day weekend marks the only statutory holiday in August before Labour Day, and visitors heading to national parks will benefit from ongoing Parks Canada promotions.
Under the Canada Strong Pass initiative, admission to all Parks Canada-operated national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas is free from through Sept. 2, 2025.
As part of the same program, Parks Canada is offering a 25 per cent discount on camping and roofed accommodations at participating locations. The discount applies to frontcountry camping, oTENTiks, MicrOcubes, yurts, tipis, historic stays, and overnight backcountry camping.
The offer does not extend to third-party services, hot springs, mooring, or permits.
Reservations are strongly recommended due to limited summer availability. First-come, first-served options are also eligible for the reduced rate during the promotional period.
No entry pass or ticket is required to receive free admission.
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@discoverairdrie.com. You can also message and follow us on Twitter: @AIR1061FM.
DiscoverAirdrie encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the DiscoverAirdrie app.