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Banff National Park of Canada

Bear Update © Parks Canada / Glen Peers
September 5, 2008

Fall Feeding

At this time of year, bears are very busy feeding on a variety of food sources, as they try to fatten up before denning for the winter. They are still finding berries along roadsides and trails, so please be vigilant while driving and hiking. Bears may also be attracted to fruit trees in yards or human food and garbage in townsites and campgrounds.

Please ensure that all potential bear attractants -- garbage, pet food, BBQ grease, empty bottles, bird feeders -- are stored in bearproof locations. Fruit trees, and crabapples in particular, are a powerful bear magnet. Residents are reminded to pick up fallen fruit in their yards and harvest all fruit remaining on the trees.

Weekly Bear Sightings

Restricted Access for Allenby Pass

From August 1 to September 30, Restricted Access will be in effect for Allenby Pass. During this time, hikers or horse groups will be allowed to travel over Allenby Pass by special permit only. For hikers, permit conditions include a minimum group size of four adults (minimum age 16 and over), with larger groups recommended. For horse groups, a minimum of 2 riders is required. Permits are available by personal appointment at the Banff Information Centre 403-762-1550.

Access to Assiniboine Lodge remains open during Restricted Access via the lower-route trail to Assiniboine Pass or Wonder Pass. The Br17 backcountry campground is outside of the restricted area and remains accessible.

Learn more

Group Access Restriction for Aylmer Pass Trail

From July 15 to September 30, group access will be required by law for the Aylmer Pass trail from the Lake Minnewanka trail to the Park boundary, including the trail to Aylmer Lookout.

Group access means that people must travel in a tight group of four or more for safety reasons. During this time the Lm8 campground will also be closed. The Lake Minnewanka Lakeshore trail is not affected by group access, and will remain open.

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Did you know… the trail conditions report gives current wildlife related warnings and closures. Check it out before you head out!

Current Bear Warnings and Closures
NEW!

Grizzly bear monitoring in the Mountain National Parks: Mortalities & bear/human encounters.

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BEARS AND PEOPLE - A Guide to Safety and Conservation on the Trail

 

Moraine Lake Area Trails: Group Access
Bryant Creek and Aylmer Pass

Sow grizzly with her cub, © Terry Willis

 

Last Updated: 2008-09-05 To the top
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Important Notices