Large Area at Banff Closed After Bear Damages Campsites

Parks Canada has closed a large area at Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park after a black bear repeatedly damaged tents and accessed food at multiple backcountry campsites.

The closure includes the Lake Minnewanka Trail, the Aylmer Pass Trail, and six backcountry campgrounds: LM8, LM9, LM11, LM20, LM22, and LM31.

The incidents began June 6, when a bear damaged an unoccupied tent at the LM9 campsite while other campers were in the area. No aggressive encounters between people and bears were reported.

On June 13, two more tents were damaged at LM9, and a bag and food reward were accessed at LM8. Campers were immediately evacuated from those sites. The following day, June 14, staff received reports of two additional unoccupied tents damaged at LM20.

There have been no witnesses to any of the incidents and no injuries. Parks Canada is conducting DNA testing to determine whether the same animal is responsible for all cases.

Given the repeated incidents, Parks Canada closed the area "in the interest of public safety." The closure will remain in place until further notice or until management actions are determined. Violators may face fines of up to $25,000.

Residents who encounter a bear are encouraged to call Banff National Park Dispatch at 403–762–1470.