An estimated 20,000 grizzly bears remain in western Canada, including Alberta, British Columbia, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. These bears are spread across the region, with approximately 691 residing on Alberta’s provincial lands and up to 16,000 in British Columbia. Banff National Park alone is home to an estimated 65 grizzlies.
Train strikes are a significant cause of grizzly bear mortality in Banff National Park. Grizzlies are constantly on the move in search of food, space, shelter, and mates, often crossing roads and railways during their travels. Railways in particular attract bears due to the abundance of vegetation, spilled grain, and animal carcasses found along the tracks.
This grizzly bear was fortunately able to get off the tracks before the train rolled through, avoiding what easily could have been a deadly collision.
Bears are an incredible sight for visitors to Banff National Park, but they can be dangerous for those unprepared for an encounter. Travel through bear country should be done in larger groups with bear spray carried in an easily accessible place. Be sure you know how to use it and keep in mind that wind, spray range, rain, freezing temperatures, and the product’s shelf life can all affect its effectiveness. Learn more about staying safe around bears in Banff below.
Parks Canada Bear Safety Guidelines:
AVOID an encounter is the best approach
Bears travel the same trails people do, on the path of least resistance. You can help protect these animals by avoiding encounters with them.
- Avoid travelling in high quality bear habitat at key times of year.
- Make noise! Let bears know you are there. Call out, clap hands, sing or talk loudly especially near streams, dense vegetation and berry patches, on windy days, and in areas of low visibility. Bear bells are not effective. Bears can be so preoccupied eating that they may not be aware of your presence.
- Watch for fresh bear signs. Tracks, droppings, diggings, torn-up logs and turned-over rocks are all signs that a bear has been in the area. Leave the area if the signs are fresh.
- Keep your dog on a leash and under physical control at all times. We recommend leaving your dog at home if you plan to camp, hike or go into the backcountry. Dogs can trigger aggressive behaviour from wildlife.
- Larger size groups are less likely to have a serious bear encounter. We recommend hiking in a tight group of four or more. Never let children wander.
- Use officially marked paths and trails and travel during daylight hours as bears are more active at dawn and dusk.
- If you come across a large dead animal, leave the area immediately and report it to Parks Canada.Â
- Dispose of fish offal in fast moving streams or the deep part of a lake, never along stream sides or lake shores.
Bear Spray
Carry bear spray with you at all times when recreating. Ensure it is easily accessible and know how to use it. Bear spray can be effective with some bears when used properly. Be aware that wind, spray distance, rain, freezing temperatures and product shelf life can all influence its effectiveness. Familiarize yourself with the proper use of bear spray (including the manufacturer’s specific instructions) and keep it readily accessible. However, the best way to live safely with bears is to avoid contact with them.