Hungry bears prompt no-stopping zone along Highway 93
Closures to remain in effect until bears move out of area
Parks Canada has again instituted a no-stopping zone along Highway 93 South in Kootenay National Park to protect bears.
This year's 15-kilometre stretch runs between Settler's Road and the McKay Creek Operations Centre near the Radium Hot Springs Pools. Bear warnings are in effect and restrooms are closed.
The Olive Lake day use area and Cobb Lake trail are also closed due to increased wildlife activity.
The area closures will remain in effect until bears move away from the highway to search for food at higher elevations.
The no-stopping zone was first put in place in 2014 after a grizzly and her cubs foraging near Olive Lake caused traffic chaos as people stopped to look at the animals and take pictures.
Parks Canada staff and RCMP will be patrolling the areas and could issue penalties ranging from a $115 ticket up to a mandatory court appearance and maximum fine of $25,000.
If you see anyone feeding wildlife, report the incident to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470.