Grizzlies force closure of part of Highway 40 to hikers and cyclists: Alberta Parks

A bear warning sign near Kananaskis Village on June 13, 2019

Part of Highway 40 in Kananaskis Country is closed to hikers and cyclists due to an abundance of bears in the area, Alberta Parks said.

The province said the closure is in effect until further notice.

The provincial website posted that all foot traffic and bike traffic between Highway 40 from Kananaskis Lakes Trail to Highwood Pass is prohibited.

“Multiple bears, including breeding pairs, are active in the valley bottom due to the snowpack and due to a grizzly bear bluff charge,” Alberta Parks said on its website.

Highway 40 is closed to motorists until June 15 annually.

Alberta Parks also posted a bear warning for Kananaskis Golf Course. It said multiple bears have been spotted on the course.

Report bear sightings and incidents to 403-591-7755.