Bears are making local headlines again and the news isn’t good. “Deadly Bear Attack” is splashed across the front of the page. Tragically, a mountain biker lost her life in an encounter with an aggressive black bear while cycling down a ski hill last week. Public opinion is mixed. Should we get rid of the threat (i.e. get rid of the bears), close access to bear territory, or accept the risk that wildlife encounters can occur when you head out on the trail?

To get rid of all of the “threats” that exist in wilderness is equivalent to taking the wild out of the equation. It’s not even a consideration. Parks Canada is being proactive in its bear closures in Banff National Park this year. Due to an early berry season and bear sightings in the Lake Minnewanka/Alymer Pass area, the trail has been closed. Shutting down human access in prime wildlife feeding areas is a valid option.

And even when areas are open to travel, wilderness users need to accept the fact that wildlife encounters can occur. Fortunately, there are simple measures that you can take to minimize the chance of unwanted meetings.

Making noise is probably the most effective tool in hiker’s kit, which is why travelling in small groups is a good idea. Whether you talk as you walk, sing songs, shout “yo bear” every once and a while, or carry bear bells (somewhat annoying, but popular) – every sound you make has the potential to warn wildlife of your approach.

Travelling slowly in bear country is another good thing to do; it gives animals time to acknowledge your presence ahead of time and move away. Watching for sign (bear scat, diggings, tracks) is important too – and if you see fresh evidence of bears in the area, up the noise factor and beat a retreat.

I’ve been actively hiking in bear country with my family for almost 25 years and can count on one hand the number of up close and personal bear sightings we’ve had. Unfortunately for bear public relations, these encounters aren’t the type making headlines. But watching a sow and two cubs as they work their way along a lakeshore, the cubs boxing and playing with each other until mom roars for them to shake a leg and get a move on, was priceless. It’s one of those moments I think we all need to see, a little good bear news for a change.

When in bear country:
• Travel in groups when possible.
• Make noise.
• Watch for sign.
• Be ready to alter your hiking plans to avoid potential encounters.
• Carry bear spray.
• Be aware.