Bear Activity Prompts Banff National Park Closures

A large section of Banff National Park has been cordoned off by Parks Canada following a series of incidents involving a bear damaging tents in its search for food. The closure encompasses the popular Lake Minnewanka Trail, the Aylmer Pass Trail, and six designated backcountry campsites.

Parks Canada reported at least three separate incidents between June 6 and June 14. Initially, a black bear damaged an unoccupied tent at the LM9 backcountry campsite. Subsequently, two tents were damaged at the same LM9 site, and food was accessed at campsite LM8. Another report on June 14 detailed damage to two more unoccupied tents at campsite LM20.

While no negative human-wildlife interactions or aggressive encounters have been reported, and the incidents were largely unwitnessed, the repeated occurrences have led to the precautionary closure. DNA testing is underway to determine if a single bear is responsible for all the damage. The area is now strictly off-limits, with violators facing fines up to $25,000, as authorities prioritize public safety and wildlife management.