Two North Vancouver hiking trails closed due to 'extreme' bear activity

Aug 30 2018, 11:41 pm

UPDATE:

Metro Vancouver said a bear trap has now been set to capture and relocate the “aggressive” bear.

And while the Varley Trail and Connector Trail have reopened, officials are advising people that it is still best to avoid the area for now.

ORIGINAL STORY:

Two popular hiking trails in North Vancouver have been closed to the public, due to what Metro Vancouver says is ‘extreme’ bear activity.

In a tweet, Metro Vancouver advised that the Varley Trail, as well as the Connector Trail in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, are closed as a result.

A ‘bear alert’ has also been issued for the Lynn Loop Trail.

In light of the alerts and closures, Metro Vancouver is also reminding people of some precautions they can take when hiking in areas where bears may live:

  • Give wildlife respect and space. Do not attempt to get close to a bear or to feed a bear.
  • Hike with a friend (or two) and make some noise as you go (talking, singing) to let wildlife know that you’re in the area.

If you encounter a bear:

  • Do not run.
  • Face the bear and back away slowly.
  • Stay calm.
  • Talk to the bear in a confident voice.
  • Make sure the bear has a clear exit. He or she is likely just as anxious to get out of there as you are.
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Eric ZimmerEric Zimmer

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