Bear Safety
A Guide for Visitors to Mount Engadine Lodge
Welcome to the Canadian Rockies
Our lodge is located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, one of the world’s most spectacular natural environments and home to a diverse range of wildlife, including both black bears and grizzly (brown) bears. Seeing wildlife is one of the unique experiences of visiting this region.
While bear encounters are uncommon, they are a natural part of living and recreating in bear habitat. By following a few simple precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself, other guests, and the wildlife that call these mountains home.
Before You Explore
- Carry bear spray and keep it readily accessible (not inside a backpack).
- Hike in groups whenever possible.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Stay on designated trails and respect all posted wildlife advisories and trail closures.
- Dress appropriately for changing mountain weather and carry sufficient water.
While on the Trail
- Talk with your group while hiking.
- Make extra noise around blind corners, dense vegetation, streams, and windy areas.
- Stay alert and avoid using headphones that reduce your awareness.
- Watch for fresh signs of bear activity (tracks, scat, digging, overturned logs, or animal carcasses). If you observe fresh signs, leave the area and notify lodge staff.
Black Bears & Grizzly Bears
Both black bears and grizzly bears live throughout this region and should always be treated with respect.
Never approach a bear, never feed wildlife, always give bears plenty of space, and allow the bear a clear escape route whenever possible.
Colour alone is not a reliable way to identify a bear.
If You Encounter a Bear
Do
- Stop and assess the situation.
- Keep children close and remain together as a group.
- Speak in a calm, firm voice.
- Slowly back away while facing the bear.
- Prepare your bear spray if the bear continues approaching.
Do Not
- Run.
- Turn your back on the bear.
- Scream.
- Approach the bear for photographs.
- Block the bear's path of travel.
If a bear continues approaching at close range, use bear spray according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Around The Lodge
- Never leave food, coolers, garbage, or pet food unattended outdoors.
- Dispose of waste only in designated wildlife-resistant garbage bins.
- Keep vehicles locked and free of food or scented items whenever possible.
- Do not feed wildlife under any circumstances.
Report Wildlife Sightings
If you observe a bear on or near lodge property or nearby trails, please notify the Front Desk as soon as possible. Providing the location, time, and direction of travel helps staff monitor wildlife activity and coordinate with wildlife authorities when appropriate.
Visiting With Dogs
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times.
- Do not allow dogs to chase or harass wildlife.
- Feed pets indoors only.
- If you encounter wildlife, calmly leave the area while maintaining control of your dog.
Bear Country Checklist
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Hike in groups whenever possible.
- Make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
- Keep dogs leashed and under control.
- Keep food, garbage, and scented items secure.
- Stay alert and remain on designated trails.
- Never run from a bear.
- Report wildlife sightings to lodge staff.
A Shared Responsibility
The safety of our guests, employees, and wildlife is our highest priority. Our team works closely with wildlife authorities and follows established best practices for operating in bear habitat.
By respecting wildlife and following these simple guidelines, you help preserve the remarkable natural environment that makes the Canadian Rockies such a memorable place to visit.