Grizzly Ultra 2026 Registration

Bear spray requirement for participation in all events at the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park.

For many years, the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park (CNCPP) has worked closely with event organizers to promote Wildsmart strategies and best practices aimed at reducing negative human-wildlife interactions during events. One of the most effective strategies at avoiding a negative encounter is carrying bear spray while on trails. Although this accepted practice has become common place among recreationalists here in the Bow Valley, there has been some reluctance among race participants to carry bear spray while out on course. This is despite the fact that every year, there are multiple encounters with bears and other wildlife in event settings at the CNCPP. 

We want all race event participants to be as safe as possible and yet recognize that unless mandated, carrying a can of bear spray can bring with it a slight weight penalty to those voluntarily choosing safety over competitive advantage. With this in mind, last year, the CNCPP worked closely with organizers of the 24 Hours of Adrenalin mountain biking event requiring all participants to carry bear spray while on course. Checks by Conservation Officers confirmed a near 100% compliance amongst the 1,600+ event participants. As a result of this success, the CNCPP has decided to apply this same requirement to all other events with a similar wildlife encounter risk profile (including all Grizzly Mountain Events) in 2014 and beyond.

As a participant in  Grizzly Mountain Events, you will be required to carry bear spray while out on course. You will be asked to show your can of bear spray to a designated individual when entering the race transition area and will not be permitted to start without it. If you are found to be on course without bear spray, you may be disqualified from the event.

This requirement is being introduced at the CNCPP to enhance the safety of visitors, protect its wildlife population and ensure the continued viability of the Canmore Nordic Centre as a premier event hosting facility.  

Implementation of the bear spray requirement for events is a significant step and not one that has been taken lightly. We welcome your comments and ask that you adhere to this requirement for your personal safety. 

Kananaskis Region, Parks Division | Alberta Tourism, Parks & Recreation

Suite 100, 1988 Olympic Way, Canmore, AB, T1W 2T6

P: 403-678-2400 ext. 104 | C: 403-679-8303 | F: 403-678-5696