Large areas of Whistler Blackcomb will remain closed on Monday due to recent cougar encounters reported over the weekend. The sightings occurred primarily on the Blackcomb side of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, prompting the ski resort to close the Ascent Trail, Blackcomb bike trails, and both the Creekside and Garbanzo Zones. The decision prioritizes the safety of visitors, particularly after a family reported a tense encounter while hiking. A woman in their group found herself sandwiched between a cougar above her and another below, prompting her to use hiking poles to scare them away.
An 11-year-old boy, Carter, recounted the incident, highlighting that his father was prepared with pepper spray. The family was understandably alarmed, with the father repeatedly identifying the threat as a cougar. They managed to descend safely using the Gondola, but the situation underscores the seriousness of wildlife encounters in these recreational areas. Conservation officers have been dispatched to the region to investigate the sightings and ensure public safety. Sgt. Chris Boyle of the BC Conservation Officer Service confirmed no injuries had occurred, but the close proximity of cougars to bikers is alarming.
In one instance, a cougar allegedly chased a biker for approximately 300 meters, raising concerns regarding the behavior and safety of these wild animals. Officers have yet to locate the cougars, but their presence raises questions about public safety. As these animals have not posed a previous risk to humans, the conservation officers aim to monitor them closely and encourage their natural retreat from the populated areas. The community is encouraged to stay vigilant and be aware of the potential dangers.
The recent cougar incidents are part of a troubling pattern, as similar encounters were reported in Garibaldi Park a few weeks prior and on Whistler Mountain just days before the latest sightings on Blackcomb Mountain. This series of events is unusual for the area, according to conservation officials, suggesting that environmental factors may be influencing the cougars’ behavior and movements. These developments heighten fears about the implications for both wildlife management and visitor safety.
While relocation of the cougars is not an option, conservation officers emphasize their policy of patience, hoping the animals will leave the area naturally. However, if the cougars remain present and continue to pose a threat to people, officers have indicated they may resort to lethal measures. This stance reflects their commitment to safeguarding both the public and the integrity of the wildlife ecosystem in Whistler.
Given these encounters and the ongoing investigations, authorities recommend that visitors exercise extreme caution while in the area. They stress the importance of being well-equipped with wildlife deterrents, such as bear spray, and remaining aware of their surroundings at all times. The situation is a reminder of the delicate balance between enjoying nature and respecting the wildlife that inhabits these spaces. With ongoing monitoring and response plans, the hope remains that both visitors and wildlife can coexist safely in this beautiful but unpredictable environment.
