Bear incident closes area in Waterton Lakes National Park

A serious bear incident has forced the closure of several trails and campsites in Waterton Lakes National Park in southern Alberta.

In Wednesday’s closure warning, Parks Canada said the area around Crandell Lake was closed.

Parks Canada, in a comment on a Facebook post about the closure, said the two people involved in the incident were in stable condition and recovering.

The bear could not be located and the species is currently unknown.

Parks Canada is investigating the incident.

The closure area includes:

• Crandell Mountain, including Crandell Lake Trail, Crandell Lake Campground, Crandell Loop from Town to Crandell Lake Trailhead, Crandell Mountain Campground, and Canyon Church Campground.
• Ruby Ridge on the northern slopes of Mount Blakiston, including Ruby Falls and Ruby Lake.
• The Lineham Trail encompasses the Lineham Cliffs and the southern slopes of Mount Blakiston.
• The map shows the area of ​​closure in the Crandell Lake area of ​​Waterton Lakes National Park, which was implemented on June 12, 2024 due to a serious bear incident. (Courtesy: Parks Canada)

Parks Canada provided no further details about the incident.

Violators can be prosecuted under Canada’s National Parks Act, with a maximum fine of $25,000.

Bear sightings can be reported by calling 1-888-927-3367 or notifying Parks Canada staff.