Grizzly Bear

The grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) is one of the most significant large mammals in Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies. Because of low reproductive rates and sensitivity to human activity, it is listed as “Species of Special Concern” in Canada and “Threatened” in Alberta.

Population and habitat. Approximately 65 grizzly bears reside in Banff. In the Central Rockies, a male’s home range can span 1,000–2,000 km²; females occupy roughly 200–500 km². Slate Range grizzly habitat influenced the Richardson’s Ridge expansion, which required relocating summer sightseeing away from mid-mountain foraging areas. Some individual bears have become local icons; notably “The Boss” (Bear 122), a dominant 600 lb+ male known for surviving being hit by a train and roaming a massive territory that includes the Banff townsite.

Conservation. Parks Canada has implemented world-leading strategies: over 40 wildlife overpasses and underpasses with fencing along the Trans-Canada Highway (reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions by ~80%); seasonal closures and group-access restrictions (minimum 4 people) during berry season or when a mother and cubs are present; attractant management in the town of Banff (bear-proof bins, removal of fruit trees).

Safety and viewing. Bears are out of hibernation from early April to November; sightings are most common at dawn and dusk. The safest viewing is from a vehicle or the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola. If you spot one while driving, stay in the car and maintain at least 100 m distance. Hiking: carry bear spray in an accessible holster, make plenty of noise (“Hey Bear!”), stay on marked trails. Check Parks Canada for current trail closures.

Identification (grizzly vs black bear): Grizzlies have a prominent shoulder hump; lower rump than shoulders; “dished” or concave facial profile; long (5–10 cm), light-coloured claws. Black bears lack the hump, have a higher rump, straight or “Roman” nose, and short (2–3 cm), dark claws.

The resort’s Grizzly Bowl and Grizzly Gully runs are named after this animal.