Bow Valley WildSmart

Bear Warning - Kananaskis Lakes Trail Road and Area including all facilities and trails along the Kananaskis Lakes Trail (KLT) Road between Highway 40 and Upper Kananaskis Lake, and along the Spray Road between the KLT and Lower Kananaskis Lake.

WHY? Grizzly bears, including multiple bears with cubs of varying ages, are frequenting campgrounds and trails. A grizzly bear with her first litter of cubs has been exhibiting defensive behavior when surprised by people at close range. During these surprise encounters, she has perceived people as a threat and responded with bluff charges to warn them to back away and give her space. More info at: https://ow.ly/antV50ZoEjW

🐻As more people head out into bear country to go camping, hiking and picnicking, not only are the roads getting busier, but there is an increased chance of bears and other wildlife accessing food and garbage that is improperly stored or left unattended.
🐻Remember to obey speed limits and slow down when passing wildlife but don’t stop on the roadside and create bear jams. Never get out of your vehicle to get closer to a bear that is roadside - it stresses out and disturbs the bear, and is potentially dangerous for you, the bear and other motorists.
🐻A reminder to campers and day users to ensure you keep a clean and wildlife attractant free picnic area and campsite. Store food in hard-sided trailers, vehicles and storage lockers (NOT IN YOUR TENT) and dispose of garbage in bear-proof bins.
🐻If the bin is full, take your garbage to another bin or take the garbage home with you, but NEVER leave garbage on the ground where it is accessible for wildlife!
🐻If a bear approaches your campsite or picnic table, do your best to gather up and secure all the food so the bear does not get a food reward - and USE YOUR BEAR SPRAY!
🐻Do not leave attractants unattended - even for a minute!
🐻Elk calving season is winding down but that does not mean people should become complacent as mother elk will still aggressively defend their calves if they feel threatened by people getting too close to their young!
🐻Learn about how outdoor recreationalists like hikers and mountain bikers influence wildlife movements in Fernie, B.C.
🐻Help support the Biosphere Institute by donating your refundable recyclables through SkipTheDepot.
🐻Find out how to join the Biosphere's Summit Club plus more in this week's bear report!

Bear Report - July 2, 2026 — Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley Did you know that WildSmart is a program of the Biosphere Institute, a local charity? Our work relies entirely on donations and sponsors. If you would like to support our community-based efforts to promote human-wildlife coexistence, please donate now! BEAR ACTIVITY UPDATE (July 2, 2026)