BC Parks is reopening day-use access in all areas of Garibaldi Provincial Park, following closures due an aggressive and food-conditioned bear.
On July 20, the province said day-use areas at Cheakamus Lake and camping sites at Helm Creek in Garibaldi Provincial Park are open again.
Previously, day-use access to the Cheakamus Lake Trailhead was shut down due to the bear.
However, overnight stays are still prohibited in some areas. Campgrounds at Cheakamus Lake and Singing Creek will remain temporarily closed to reduce wildlife attractants.
The area was shut in June due to an aggressive and food-conditioned bear. BC Parks has been unsuccessful at trapping the bear, indicating it has likely moved on from the Cheakamus Lake area.
People are required to have free day-use passes to visit the area and can get one online at https://reserve.bcparks.ca/dayuse/
Authorities recommend people carry bear spray, be familiar with its use, travel together in groups, and make noise while hiking. Bear attractants, such as food, garbage, bug spray and deodorant must not be left unattended.
In the meantime, a popular recreation site in the Squamish Valley, Levette Lake, remains closed indefinitely due to a food-conditioned bear.
