Alberta Parks has issued several active bear warnings and two area closures in Kananaskis Country ahead of the weekend due to grizzly bears feeding on berries or a carcass.
A bear warning was issued August 6 for Mount Shark Road and Smith-Dorrien Trail (Highway 742) between Mount Shark Road and Sparrowhawk Day Use Area. Grizzly bears are feeding on abundant berries in the area. The advisory states there was a close encounter with a cyclist, during which bear spray was deployed.
Affected areas:
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Mount Shark Road
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Smith-Dorrien Trail (Highway 742, Spray Lakes Road)
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Sparrowhawk Day Use
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Spray Valley Provincial Park
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Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park
A bear closure is also in effect for the area south of Gorge Creek Trail, effective August 6. The closure extends:
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West to Bluerock Creek Trail
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East to Indian Oils trail gate
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Includes all trails and routes within the mapped area
According to Alberta Parks, a grizzly bear is feeding on a cow carcass. The Gorge Creek and Bluerock Creek trails remain open for on-trail travel only. Off-trail travel is prohibited.
A second bear closure was issued August 6 for:
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Buller Mountain Day Use
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Buller Pond Hiker-Biker Camping
The closure is due to multiple grizzly bears, including bears with cubs, feeding on berries. The advisory states the Buller Mountain Trailhead parking remains open for those hiking to Buller Pass.
Affected area:
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Spray Valley Provincial Park
Two bear warnings issued August 5 remain active:
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Mount Kidd RV Park, where a grizzly bear with cubs is frequenting the area.
Affected area:-
Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area
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Buller Mountain Trailhead, where multiple grizzlies are feeding on berries.
Affected area:-
Spray Valley Provincial Park
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Alberta Parks advises visitors to:
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Secure all food, garbage, recycling, pet food and scented items, and never leave them unattended
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Make noise and travel in groups
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Be aware of surroundings and watch for bear signs
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Keep pets leashed
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Carry bear spray, keep it accessible, and know how to use it
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Report bear sightings to 403-591-7755
All warnings and closures remain in effect until further notice.
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