According to Alberta Parks officials, the closure of the popular Lady Macdonald Trail near Canmore will last till the end of November.

The closure which began on Monday is in conjunction with blasting work being done in the area due to construction. Hence, Cougar Creek Canyon from the junction of Montane Traverse Trail and Lady Macdonald Trail upstream will be closed for approximately 1 kilometre. Montane Traverse Trail and Horseshoe Trail are not affected by this closure.

Officials said that there will be construction and blasting activities to support the Town of Canmore Cougar Creek Sediment Retention Structure Project.

"To ensure visitor safety around the construction site, Alberta Parks is closing the access to Cougar Creek Canyon for all recreational uses."

Those who are looking for alternatives to Cougar Creek Canyon may consider Heart Creek, and Grotto Canyon or hire a guide that can safely show other options. However, those who choose Heart Creek should also remember that there is a bear warning in the area

Heart Creek Trail and McGillivray Bunker Trail have been under a bear warning since August due to multiple black bears having been observed feeding on berries in the area.