Hiking In Bear Country

🐻 Yes, the Canadian Rockies are bear country. That sounds dramatic, but it’s simply part of being in a wild mountain landscape. These lands are home to both Grizzly Bears and Black Bears. Not to mention other dangerous wildlife like cougars (mountain lion), elk, moose, wolverine, wolf, and much more.

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What I always recommend

• Always carry bear spray

• Know how to use it before you need it

• Make noise while hiking

• Travel in groups when possible

• Stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk

• Never feed or approach wildlife

• Respect posted wildlife warnings and closures

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If you see a bear

• Stay calm

• Back away slowly

• Give it space

• Never run

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Important wildlife distances

As a general rule:

• keep at least 100 metres from bears

• keep at least 30 metres from other wildlife

A lot of visitors either underestimate wildlife safety, or they make it more dramatic than it needs to be.

The smarter approach is simple. Be prepared, stay alert, and respect the animal’s space. If a trail has recent wildlife warnings posted, take them seriously. Conditions can change quickly.

🌲 You are visiting their home, not the other way around.