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Another bear warning has been issued, this time at high-traffic day-use areas along Highway 40 from Canoe Meadows to the Barrier Boat Launch. Several warnings and one closure remain in effect for the mountain parks as we head into the long weekend. Photo/Mike Reece
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A bear warning remains in effect for a series of high-traffic day-use areas along Highway 40 from Canoe Meadows to the Barrier Boat Launch as the Heritage Day long weekend begins.

The advisory was issued July 30 and will remain in place until further notice after a grizzly bear and her cub were observed frequenting the area to feed on natural vegetation.

The affected sites include Canoe Meadows Day Use and campground, Widowmaker Day Use and trail, the Kananaskis Visitor Information Centre Day Use, Barrier Dam Day Use, and Barrier Boat Launch Day Use areas.


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It's the latest in a series of warnings issued by Alberta Park.

Several other bear advisories have been issued across Kananaskis, including Peter Lougheed Provincial Park campgrounds, Lusk Creek, Stoney Creek Group Campground, the U of C Barrier Lake Research Station, the Bill Milne Trail, Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park, the Grassi Lakes Trail System, and the Reclaimer Trail.

A closure issued July 15 remains in effect for the Commonwealth Valley and surrounding area in Peter Lougheed until further notice.

Visitors are urged to take extra precautions if heading into the region this weekend. Alberta Parks is reminding the public that although the warning is site-specific, bears may be encountered anywhere in the Kananaskis Region.

For the latest advisories on the mountain parks and others across the province visit the Alberta Parks site here

Please report all bear sightings immediately to 403-591-7755.

Bear safety tips include:

  • Keep food, garbage, and all scented items secure and never leave them unattended.

  • Travel in groups and make noise to avoid surprise encounters.

  • Be aware of your surroundings; watch and listen for signs of bear activity.

  • Keep pets leashed at all times.

  • Carry bear spray where it’s easily accessible—and know how to use it.

The public is encouraged to learn more about bear safety through WildSmart and to report any bear sightings immediately by calling 403-591-7755.

More safety resources are available through Alberta Parks, including trail reports, wildlife information, and backcountry guidelines.

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Stay safe—and bear aware—this long weekend.

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