A hiker narrowly avoided physical contact with a charging grizzly bear near the popular Troll Falls in Kananaskis, according to provincial wildlife officials. The incident occurred on Monday, May 4, 2026, when the bear came within approximately one meter of the hiker before retreating.
Bear Warning Issued for Popular Trails
Alberta Parks and Forestry confirmed the encounter, stating, "Grizzly bear bluff charged a hiker and got within 4 feet of the hiker on May 4, 2026." As a result, a bear warning has been issued for the Troll Falls, Sunburst, and Stoney Trails and surrounding areas until further notice. The Troll Falls trail is a short, easy hike leading to a series of waterfalls below the Mount Nakiska ski area, while the Sunburst Trail is nearby.
"Although an advisory is in place for this area, bears can be encountered at any time," the website noted.
Expert Analysis on Bear Behavior
John Clarke, a former Alberta wildlife officer who now operates the Canadian Bear Safety Authority in the Crowsnest Pass, said the incident likely involved a bear protecting cubs or a carcass. "It's telling you to get out, 'it's my space, leave,'" Clarke explained. "When you see the threat, you start retreating and get your bear spray out." He emphasized that bears that follow hikers are the ones to be genuinely concerned about.
In early May, grizzlies forage for orchids, dandelions, early grass, and ground squirrels. They may also frequent avalanche shoots where animal carcasses from slides can be found. Clarke noted that after consulting in the area during last year's G7 Summit, "there are highly habituated bears up there; they're used to seeing people."
Safety Recommendations and Context
Alberta Forestry and Parks advises hikers to travel in groups, make plenty of noise, keep pets leashed, watch for bear signs, and secure attractants like food and garbage. In recent weeks, the Rural Municipalities of Alberta have urged the province to renew a grizzly bear hunt due to rising threats to people and livestock. The hunt was ended 20 years ago due to dwindling grizzly numbers, which are believed to have rebounded. In 2024, the province began allowing limited shooting of "problematic" grizzlies by qualified hunters.
