A recent hiking adventure in Canada’s Banff National Park turned into an adrenaline-pumping wildlife encounter as a group of hikers found themselves closely shadowed by two enormous grizzly bears. This heart-pounding episode, captured on video and shared by the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC), showcased the remarkable yet nerve-wracking experience.
The journey unfolded along the scenic Consolation Lake Trail near Moraine Lake, a popular destination within Banff National Park. Leading the group was Phoebe Nicholson, a knowledgeable guide who emphasized the importance of staying composed during this remarkable encounter.
For approximately 20 minutes, the pair of grizzly bears trailed closely behind the hikers. Nicholson, the only person equipped with bear spray, remained calm and provided guidance to the group as they continued their hike.
In one thrilling moment, the smaller of the two grizzlies executed a bluff charge, a behavior that Nicholson recognized as typical bear conduct. She emphasized the significance of remaining composed and moving at a slow, deliberate pace during such encounters.
In a video interview with CBC, Nicholson, originally from Australia and working in Banff for around six months, described how the bears maintained a distance of 10 to 20 meters from the group throughout the entire 20-minute experience. Eventually, the grizzlies veered off, allowing the group to complete their guided hike without further incident.
Banff National Park is home to an estimated 65 grizzly bears, with similar numbers residing in the neighboring Jasper National Park to the north. Visitors to these parks are advised to carry bear spray, create ample noise, and adhere to designated trails to ensure safe and respectful coexistence with the park’s wildlife.
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