Early season food is very important for these animals as they have been fasting for nearly six months. Hikers and bikers should watch for droppings and other signs, make noise on trails and carry bear spray.
Wolves and coyotes are currently active near town. A large black wolf has been frequenting the area near the JPL bridge and the Signal pack has been spotted in the Valley of the Five Lakes. There have not been any recent encounters with pets or humans, but please remember to keep pets on a leash while out and about.
Deer, elk, sheep and goats are all attracted to the roadsides while vegetation is greening up, so drivers are encouraged to keep their eyes peeled for wildlife.
Woodpecker Trail almost finished: Work will complete Jasper’s Easy Trail System
This spring, finishing touches will be put on the Woodpecker Trail, which connects Lake Annette with Trefoil Lake near Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.
New interpretive signage will highlight FireSmart thinning work that acts as a fire break, and wildlife and trees that have adapted to wildfire.
Bear safety tips
If you are hiking or biking in the mountain parks, you may encounter a bear anytime, anywhere. The more you know about bear ecology and behaviour, and how to act in the event of a bear encounter, the safer you will be.
Be aware that bears are found throughout the park and can move long distances in a very short time period. Just because a bear has been sighted on a particular trail does not mean it will be there an hour later. Please check for trail warnings and closures (online at ) before you hit the trail. The Bear Sightings Report provides an overview of where bears have been sighted on a weekly basis. It is compiled from bear sightings by parks staff, researchers and the public. You can view it at , under “Bear Update.”
Stay alert on the trails
- Make noise
- Look for fresh bear signs
- Travel in groups
- Keep your dog on a leash
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- If you encounter a bear, give it LOTS of space
Drive with care
- Reduce your speed
- Stay in your vehicle when watching roadside bears—do not follow a bear into the forest
Safely store bear attractants
- Keep food, garbage, recyclables, pet food and barbecues in bear-proof storage or hard-sided vehicles
If you see a bear, please let us know! Report all bear sightings to the Jasper National Park Resource Conservation Office (24 hrs) at 780-852-6155.
