Hiking in Bear & Cougar Country
by Stormy of Monod Sports Ltd

Grizzly bears, black bears and mountains lions (a/k/a "cougars") all work, play and reside in the Canadian Rockies. Fear of these predators prevents many from venturing into our beautiful backcountry, which is an absolute shame. Realize bears and cougars are as varied as human beings, but most want to avoid us as much as we want to avoid them.

The best and easiest way to avoid a potentially negative bear and/or mountain lion encounter is through common sense, so here are some "DO's" when hiking in the Canadian Rockies:


DO hike in groups of two or more (the more, the merrier!).
There is safety in numbers! Hike together without stepping on one another's toes, make noise and have a good time! Join a hiking club like the Grand Nature Club (www.grandnatureclub.com) if you do not have regular hiking partners so you don't have to miss out!

DO carry bear deterrent and know how to use it.
In the big picture, bear deterrent costs next to nothing (much cheaper than an emergency room visit!) and gives peace of mind, as well as an effective means of defense, in the unlikely event of a bear or mountain lion encounter.

Even when traveling in groups of 2 or more, each person should carry his/her own bear deterrent and have it within IMMEDIATE reach (attach it to your backpack's hip belt or your pant belt).

NOTE: A charging grizzly bear can reach speeds up to 55 kilometers per hour in short distances; consequently, if you place the bear deterrent inside your pack, you won't be able to even get one shoulder strap off before the bear is on you. Keep bear deterrent handy!

DO pay attention to your surroundings when hiking.
In the case of bears, take note:
* Are wild berries ripening along the trail?
* Are there any recently overturned logs and/or rocks, churned up soil and vegetation and fresh piles of bear scat in or near the trail (which could mean a local bear is moving through the area looking for grub)?
* Can you clearly see down the trail a good distance? Slow down at blind corners and clap your hands loudly to announce your presence.

In the case of cougars:
• Avoid hiking early in the morning and late in the evening.
• NEVER HIKE ALONE!
• Large amounts of deer hair and/or hides with blood in and around a trail can indicate a cougar is hunting in the area.

DO not approach ANY wildlife, including bears, lions, deer, moose and/or elk.
Each year, people are gored, trampled, injured, mauled and/or killed because they treat wild animals like animals found in a petting zoo. Respect our wild animals by staying away!

DO keep your pet leashed!
Dogs like to chase animals; they cannot help it – they are descendents of wolves, after all! As the dog's owner, however, you are responsible for whatever YOUR dog does off leash.

Like everything found in the natural world, unpredictability exists. However, through education and common sense, you can dramatically cut down on your chances of having a negative bear and/or mountain lion encounter. Be smart: hike in groups and be prepared!

All rights reserved © Monod Sports Ltd 2007