Warning issued after hikers followed by cougar in Kananaskis Country

A file photo of a cougar. (Pexels)

Alberta Parks has issued a warning in Kananaskis Country after two hikers were followed by a cougar.

Alberta Parks issued the advisory last week for Gunnery Mountain and surrounding area.

The advisory affects Gunnery Mountain Trail, Gunnery Creek Trail and the Highwood Compound Provincial Recreation Area, Alberta Parks said.

The area is located off Highway 541, southwest of Longview, Alta.

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“Although an advisory is in place for this area, cougars can be encountered anywhere in the Kananaskis Region and at any time,” Alberta Parks said in the advisory.

To avoid surprise encounters with a cougar, officials say to make plenty of noise, travel in groups, be aware of your surroundings and keep pets on a leash.

Cougar sightings can be reported by calling 403-591-7755.