BURST
B.C. Parks has shut down two trails in Garibaldi Park after more reports of aggressive cougar activity in the Whistler area.
The Conservation Officer Service issued a warning Wednesday about cougar activity at Garibaldi Park, the latest in a series of reported cougar sightings that have resulted in trail closures in the area.
No one has been injured, said the service, but it advised the public to avoid the Singing Pass area.
B.C. Parks has closed the Garibaldi end of Singing Pass trail and Musical Bumps trail, which starts from the Whistler mountain trailhead, due to cougar activity.
Trail closures also remain in effect in the Blackcomb Mountain area as conservation officers work with Whistler Blackcomb resort staff to assess the danger and ensure public safety.
Wednesday’s incident comes on the heels of several reports of two cougars acting aggressively in the Whistler area over the weekend.
The aggressive behaviour included chasing, stalking, and being in proximity to mountain bikers and hikers, said the service. “
This is unusual and concerning cougar behaviour that has led to several trail closures,” it said in a notice.
Following the weekend sightings, Whistler Blackcomb shut down sections of the Whistler Mountain bike park as well as bike trails on Blackcomb Mountain.
On Wednesday, the bike park areas were reopened but Ascent Trail and the biking trail on Blackcomb Mountain remained closed.
Two weeks ago, several hikers on a Garibaldi Park trail reported being stalked by cougars , prompting the closure of Rubble Creek trail and the evacuation of two campsites.
Conservation officers believe the cougars spotted on Rubble Creek trail were the same cougars reported in Whistler.
B.C. Parks advised people to hike in groups, remain alert, and avoid stopping along the trail. It advised hikers to carry bear spray, make sure food and scented items are secure, keep children close and dogs leashed.
Reports of aggressive cougar behaviour can be made to the provincial RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.