Bear forces closure of parts of Stawamus Chief Park

If you’re thinking of going climbing at Squamish’s Stawamus Chief Park, it might be best to double-check where you’re headed.

BC Parks says a “food-conditioned” bear has prompted the closure of the North Wall and Grand Wall bouldering areas this week.

Starting Wednesday, the closure is in effect through and including the following Wednesday, July 16.

“This closure is intended to give the bear some space and a chance to move on, and to ensure the continued public safety and protection of natural park values,” BC Parks said on its website.

The closed areas include:

• North Wall closures are from bouldering areas “Action Man” to “Close to home” from 0.0 km on the Mamquam FSR to 1.4 km. BC Parks says the Slhanay Trail will remain open at this time, “but we ask visitors to use caution.”
• Grand Wall boulders are closed from “Titanic south” to the “Apron Descent Trail” (south side of the Apron). The Apron Trail will remain open as a through trail only (no stopping).

Visitors to Stawamus Chief Park are being reminded that all bear attractants need to be securely stored.

“Store all food and scented items in a vehicle, hard-sided trailer, or bear-proof locker. Visitors failing to ensure they keep attractants secure may be evicted from the park and issued a violation ticket under the BC Wildlife Act,” it said.

“Securely storing attractants is the best way to help keep visitors and bears safe.”