Some Whistler bike trails reopen as search for aggressive cougars continues

CTV News

25-06-2025

A cougar is seen in this undated image. (Shutterstock)
Sections of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park that were closed after reports of aggressive cougar activity in the area are back open Tuesday, and conservation officers are still on the lookout for the animals.
The Creekside and Garbanzo zones of the bike park opened Tuesday, but the Ascent Trail and biking trails on Blackcomb Mountain remain closed until 'further notice,' according to the municipality.
In an update, the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said to date no cougars have been seen but dogs continue to search the area.
'Since Friday night, COs have responded to multiple reports of cougars chasing, stalking, acting aggressively and being in close proximity to mountain bikers and hikers in Whistler, which led to closures of several trails,' the statement reads.
This comes after reports of aggressive cougar activity in Garibaldi Park that closed the Rubble Creek Trail—and the BCCOS believes the incidents involve the same cougars.
One of the cougar reports over the weekend turned out to by a coyote, and a report of a grizzly bear on Blackcomb was actually a cinnamon-coloured black bear, the BCCOS added.
'COs are continuing to monitor and assess cougar activity and will respond as necessary to ensure public safety,' it wrote.
Cougar conflicts or aggressive behaviour can be reported to the BCCOS at 1-877-952-7277. Tips for what to do during a cougar encounter can be found on the WildSafeBC website.