Elk Calving Prompts Closure On Tunnel Mountain Slope

Parks Canada has closed a section of Tunnel Mountain’s west slope through the end of June to protect elk during calving season, while keeping the area’s main hiking routes open.

The closure, in effect from May 1 to June 30, applies to the west slope south of the Tunnel Mountain Trail. The restriction targets informal and secondary trails, not the primary routes used by most visitors.

Popular trails including the Tunnel Mountain Summit trail, Surprise Corner, and the Bow River Trail remain open. Though hikers must stay strictly on designated paths as the closure area borders sections of that trail.

Climbing access to routes such as Black Band and Gonda Roof is still permitted, provided climbers follow the designated descent routes that avoid the restricted zone.

Parks Canada says the measure is intended to reduce human-wildlife conflicts during elk calving season, which typically peaks from mid-May to late June. Female elk often isolate themselves to give birth and can become highly aggressive when protecting calves.

“Protective mothers will aggressively defend their newborns,” the agency said in its notice, warning that elk may charge or kick if approached.

Visitors are advised to keep at least 30 metres away from elk, avoid lone females, and stick to open, marked trails. Dogs must remain on leash, and children should be kept close.

Violating the closure could result in fines of up to $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act.

Officials say the seasonal restriction helps preserve a critical calving area that sees relatively low human traffic, giving newborn elk a better chance of survival.