Alberta Parks closed the Lower Lakes day use area in Kananaskis due to grizzly bear activity.
The closure went into effect Tuesday and would be in effect until further notice, Alberta Parks said, after multiple grizzlies and cubs were seen in the area.
The closure also covers the Lower Lake group use area and the Peter Lougheed paved trail leading to the Lower Lake Campground.
Grizzly and black bear activity also triggered warnings for a number of areas in the region, including Troll Falls Trail, Stoney Trail, Ribbon Creek Trail and Boulton Creek Campground. The areas remained open but campers and hikers were advised to take extra precaution.
Alberta Parks is reminding visitors they could encounter bears anywhere in the Kananaskis region, not just in areas with closures or warnings.
To lower your chances of running into a bear, the government offers the following tips:
- Make plenty of noise and travel in groups
- Be aware of your surroundings, look and listen for bears and their signs
- Keep pets on a leash
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
Any bear sightings should be reported to Alberta Parks 403-591-7755.