Sections of a Canadian national park are currently closed off following a bear attack on two hikers on Tuesday afternoon.
The hikers, whose identities have not been disclosed, were exploring Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. They were hiking from Crandell Lake to Ruby Ridge, a striking rock formation within the park.
There are several trails connecting the two sites, approximately two miles apart. The bear encounter occurred around 2 p.m. local time, as per a statement from park officials reported by CBS News.
The bear aggressively approached the hikers, resulting in injuries to both individuals. Fortunately, they were able to use bear spray, causing the bear to back off. The hikers then swiftly left the vicinity and managed to hike out to safety before being transported to a nearby hospital. Both hikers are currently in stable condition.
Park authorities are currently on the lookout for the bear, but have not yet located it. The type of bear involved in the attack is unknown, as is the reason for its aggressive behavior. Waterton Lakes National Park is home to both black bears and grizzly bears, with black bears being more commonly spotted, according to the park’s website.
The incident is being investigated by park officials, and any bear sightings should be promptly reported to park staff, as mentioned in an online news release.
As a precaution, all sections of the Crandell Lake trail and its surrounding campground have been closed. Additionally, various trails, campgrounds, and backcountry areas within the park, including the Ruby Ridge region where the attack occurred, have been temporarily shut down.
Waterton Lakes National Park is located near the border of Alberta and Montana, neighboring Glacier National Park.