With spring comes rejuvenation.
The sunshine is warm, the days are long, our energy levels are up and we’re enthusiastic to get outside.
Nature is calling and we’re intent to answer. Why else do we live in Jasper National Park?
The trouble is, at this time of year—when our excitement is off the charts and our feet are quick to hit the trails—we often forget the dangers we face while out in the woods.
The bears have just woken up, they’re hungry and they’re busy munching on the freshly grown goodies in the valley—and, although they’re not perpetually aggressive, they do have it in them to attack when they feel threatened.
We saw that last month when a Jasper biker had a close encounter near Cottonwood Slough, causing the closure of trails 6, 6a and 6b.
There is also a warning for the entire Pyramid Bench area as there is an aggressive grizzly—possibly the same one involved in that attack—in the area. (To read more about that, see this week’s National Park 51°µÍø on page 5.)
As well as bears, the park’s elk are currently protecting their newborn calves—standing guard and preparing to strike if anyone comes too close.
A runner found that out first hand earlier this week, when she had a stand off with an aggressive cow, who kept her trapped behind a tree for 30 minutes on the Discovery Trail. The runner described the encounter as the most terrifying 30 minutes of her life.
With this weather and our renewed vigour, it’s easy to become complacent, thinking that the trails are ours for the taking, but we need to remember that we share them with wildlife.
So, as you prepare for your next adventure, don’t forget to check the warnings and closures on Parks Canada’s website, call a friend and let them know where you’re going and when you’ll be back, pack bear spray and a cellphone, and travel in groups.
Statistically, groups of three are less likely to have an aggressive encounter with a bear, so gather your friends and head out for an adventure together—that way, not only will you be safe, you’ll have someone to sing with, as you warn wildlife of your presence. Win-win!
