Grizzly attack spurs Kananaskis area closure and warning

A grizzly bear mother is centre stage on a recent bear attack.

A bear closure has been issued for Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park, located west of Highway 40.

There was a solo hiker out and about southwest of the Highwood Pass in Kananaskis Country on Sunday, Sept. 26.

The hiker, who is in his late 30s, was reportedly attacked by a grizzly mother with two cubs.

It is speculated that the area may be part of the grizzly's home range.

According to Calgary EMS spokesperson Stuart Brideaux, the call came in around 1 p.m.

He says the hiker was able to get away from the area and make the call for help himself even though he was in an area of diminished cell coverage.

An Alpine Helicopter was able to sling rescue him from the trail down to the ground unit where he was taken to the Foothills Medical Centre.

He sustained serious soft tissue injuries but was stable enough to be transported by EMS.

STARS was nearby at another helipad just in case.

Apart from the closure, the Highwood Area is also under a bear warning due to the attack.

That area includes Ptarmigan Cirque, Pocaterra Ridge, Arethusa, Lipsett, Mist, Picklejar Creek, and Lantern Creek.

Both the closure and the warning came into effect on Sept. 26, and will be in effect until further notice.

The Alberta Parks website lists the bear advisories for various areas and also included some helpful tips on avoiding a surprise encounter with a bear.

It's best to travel in groups and make plenty of noise on the trail while also making sure to beware of your surroundings and watch for bear signs.

Pets should be on a leash.

Bear spray can also come in handy.

It's important to make sure it's easy to access and that you actually know how to use it beforehand.

Bear sightings should be reported immediately.