Lake Minnewanka Backcountry Trails Closed Due To Black Bear Activity

Several trails and backcountry campgrounds around Lake Minnewanka have closed after black bears displayed food-seeking behaviour in the area.

Banff National Park says the closure came into effect Sept. 16 and will remain in place “until further notice.”

This particular closure includes the Lake Minnewanka Trail and Aylmer Pass Trail, along with six backcountry campgrounds: Lm8, Lm9, Lm11, Lm20, Lm22 and Lm31.

According to the Parks Canada advisory, black bears have displayed food-seeking behaviour in the area over the last several months.

The agency has responded with area closures and monitoring in an effort to protect visitors and wildlife, with the latest closure supporting those ongoing efforts.

There is no entry permitted into the closed areas. Parks Canada says the closure is in place under the Canada National Parks Act, and anyone who violates it could face a fine of up to $25,000.

Parks Canada is asking people to respect the closure, give wildlife space and remain bear aware while travelling in bear country.

More information about bear safety is available through Parks Canada’s bear safety guidance.