Bear Safety

The provincial and national mountain parks are home to grizzly and black bears. Learn the skills to recognize bear signs and behaviours, how to use bear spray, and what to do when you encounter a bear on the trail.

bear safety

Bear Safety Lecture

Don't let your fear of bears, cougars or other animals keep you out of the backcountry. In this 2-hour lecture, learn about bear signs and behaviours, how to avoid them and what to do when you do meet an animal on the trail. 


How to use bear spray


Bear reports and advisories

Go to the provincial and national parks websites below for general trail conditions in addition to warnings and closures. 

Bow Valley

Bear report

Banff National Park

Bear report