Update: 4 p.m., July 11:
The BC COS is investigating after receiving more reports of "concerning cougar activity in the Whistler area."
According to a Ministry of Environment spokesperson, the COS received reports late on the afternoon of July 10 of two cougars stalking people at the Helm Creek campsite and of a close encounter on the Helm Creek trail in Garibaldi Park. No one was injured and all campers were able to self-evacuate safely.
Conservation Officers and BC Parks rangers attended the site on July 11, though no cougars were seen. Both areas are now closed until July 18 out of caution.
"Warning and closure signage has been installed, and parks staff are at key trailheads to ensure people are turned away. COs are monitoring for further sightings of the cougars," the spokesperson said.
"The COS suspects these are the same pair of cougars linked to weeks of aggressive behaviour in the Whistler area, including chasing, stalking and being in close proximity to hikers and mountain bikers. The incidents led to widespread closures of hiking and mountain biking trails in the area, as well as the temporary closure of Rubble Creek trail in Garibaldi park last month."
The public is urged to take precautions in case of cougar encounters, including carrying bear spray and travelling in groups. Find safety tips and resources at WildSafeBC.com, andf for information on closures, visit Garibaldi Park | BC Parks.
"Reports of cougar conflicts and aggressive cougar behaviour can be made to the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277. CO’s will respond as necessary to ensure public safety," the spokesperson said.
Check back for updates. Original story follows.
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Sections of Garibaldi Park are once again closed to the public due to cougar sightings in the area.
Details are scarce as of Friday morning, but according to BC Parks' website, a campground and trail in the park will be closed for the next week.
"Recent reports of cougar sightings have resulted in the closure of Helm Creek Campground and Helm Creek Trail between Cheakamus and Panorama Ridge," reads the website.
"The closure is in place with a tentative reopening of Friday, July 18."
Recreators are reminded to follow all safety guidelines to "stay safe and keep cougars wild":
- Hike in groups and do not stop along the trail if possible
- Carry bear spray and ensure that all food and scented items are secured
- Always remain alert, especially at dawn and dusk
- Travel in large groups
- Have a trip plan in place and check in frequently
- Keep children close at hand
It's another in a long line of recent cougar reports in the area, with several hikers and mountain bikers reporting "aggressive" behaviour like stalking.
It's unclear if it's the same cougars in each instance.
Find more wildlife safety tips here.
Check back with Pique for updates.
