Alberta Destinations

Grizzly bear alert in Alberta's most southerly park

Photo by Wikipedia Commons

Recent grizzly bear activity at Police Outpost Provincial Park and Outpost Wetlands Natural Area near Cardston, along the Alberta-Montana border, has resulted in a temporary closure of a portion of the park and all of the natural area.

Conservation officers observed several grizzly bears feeding or residing in the area. The bears are drawn to the site by the availability of food, such as berries. It is expected the grizzly bears will use this part of the park until they hibernate for the winter.

Police Outpost campground, in the northeast section of the provincial park, will remain open until October 31, with some winter camping available.

Visitors will continue to have access to Police Lake and lakeshore trails and are encouraged to travel with bear spray and know how to properly use it. Campers need to take appropriate steps to properly store, prepare and dispose of food.

Conservation officers are patrolling the area, and signage is in place to alert visitors to the grizzly bears and provide information on what to do to lessen the opportunity for encounters.

For information on bear safety while camping and what to do if you encounter a bear, visit www.bearsmart.alberta.ca.

For more information on Police Outpost Provincial Park and Outpost Wetlands Natural Area, visit www.AlbertaParks.ca.