Alberta Parks officials have announced closures to popular climbing trails in Kananaskis Country; specifically the Grassi Lakes Climbing Routes in the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park.

"[The] Left side of the Graceland rock climbing area [will be closed] due to an owl nesting site near the following climbing routes on Grassi Lakes: You Ain’t Nothing But a Hang Dog, Memphis and It’s Now or Never," Alberta Parks stated on its website. 

The closures, which were posted to the Alberta Parks website at the end of March, will be in effect until further notice.

Other closures? 

There is also a closure that has been in effect since the weekend, which impacts the Yodel Loop in Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park due to the presence of cattle who are entering calving season.

Banff National Park wildlife closures

Last week, Banff National Park announced that there will be restrictions at the Lake Louise Trailer Campground due to what they say is seasonal bear activity.

"Lake Louise Trailer Campground is closed to all tents and tent trailers, and any units with soft-sided pop-outs," a notice stated on the National Park's website.

The restrictions were put into place last Wednesday and may last till December. 

Those who do not obey the restriction may be fined upwards of $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act.

Last week, parks officials confirmed that bear season began when Banff's most famous grizzly, affectionately known as The Boss, was spotted outside his den. The grizzly was spotted on Monday, March 19.

"Bears are awake and active in Banff National Park. Bear activity will begin to increase within the national park, as Spring arrives.  Visitors and residents are reminded to be alert and show wildlife respect while recreating in Banff National Park," officials stated.

Parks officials added that wildlife encounters can happen at any time in Banff National Park, this is why officials are reminding everyone to keep safety top of mind and remember the following rules.

  • Make noise: Let bears know you are in the area.
    • Call out, clap, sing or talk loudly, especially near streams, dense vegetation and berry patches, on windy days, and in areas of low visibility. 
  • Always carry bear spray: Ensure it is accessible, and know how to use it before you head out on the trails.  
    • Bear spray can help deter other large mammals too such as cougars, wolves, coyotes, elk, deer, moose, and bison.
  • Watch for fresh bear signs: Tracks, droppings, diggings, torn-up logs and turned-over rocks are all signs that a bear has been in the area.
    • Leave the area if the signs are fresh.
  • Keep your dog on a leash at all times (it is the law) or leave it at home: 
    • Dogs can provoke defensive behaviour in bears.
  • Larger-size groups are less likely to have a serious bear encounter:
    • Parks officials recommend hiking in a tight group of four or more. Never let children wander.
  • Stay on official trails and travel during daylight hours.
  • If you come across a large dead animal, leave the area immediately and report it to park staff.

Officials are also reminding the public that to ensure the safety of wildlife and the public, there may be closures in the area, which are posted on the park's website. 

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