Two close encounters between cyclists and charging grizzlies has prompted Parks Canada to close Trail 7, near the golf course.
The incidents took place in the evening on July 10 and July 22. No one was injured in either encounter. But a close call like that “sure would get your adrenaline pumping,” said John Wilmshurst, resource conservation manager for Jasper National Park.
Wilmshurst noted, though, that most often bears charge in order to scare people away, not to hurt them.
“We think that these bluff charges and chases happened because the bears were startled by the people coming up.” That’s why it’s important to make noise while on the trails, he said.
As well as Trail 7, the closure encompasses trails 7e, 4, 4e and 18.
“There’s quite a few buffalo berry bushes in that area and buffalo berries are ripe right now, so there’s a couple of bears with cubs—at least one has cubs—that are in that area eating those buffalo berries.”
Parks isn’t positive how many grizzlies are in the area, but a cyclist who was charged by one of the grizzlies said there were two cubs—“it’s hard to say for sure, though, because, obviously when people are being chased by a bear, they’re not sort of stopping and getting those identifying features,” said Wilmshurst.
Bears are especially active in the morning and evening, as it gets too hot for them in the afternoon.
“Their energy levels drop down in the heat of the day because they’re big furry animals.” That’s likely why the charges took place in the evening.
Parks is asking that trail users respect the closure as it is for the safety of the public and the bears.
The area will be patrolled regularly by Parks staff. There is also a trail camera set up to capture images of the bears and any other wildlife that pass through the area.
If caught within the closure area, the maximum fine is $25,000.
Nicole Veerman
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