The Nature Conservancy’s Heart Mountain Ranch Preserve is temporarily closed to hiking due to bear activity in the vicinity on Tuesday. At about the same time that trail closure was announced, Wyoming Game and Fish Department personnel verified grizzly bear tracks on the west side of the McCullough Peaks northeast of Cody.

The McCullough Peaks is an area where Game and Fish would not typically expect to see grizzly bear activity and asks the public to maintain awareness when recreating in the area, said Game and Fish Bear Wise Wyoming Coordinator Dusty Lasseter.

“This is another indication of a healthy and recovered grizzly population,” Lasseter said. “As grizzly bear populations continue to grow and increase in distribution, people should be aware that they may see bears in areas they normally would not expect to see bears. As always, it is imperative to report grizzly bear activity and conflicts to Game and Fish.”

Bears are normally very active at this time of year in the Northern Rockies and the Nature Conservancy’s closure of the Heart Mountain trail aims to prevent any conflicts between people and bears — for the safety and health of both, according to a press release.

“This is the time year when we typically see increasing black bear and grizzly bear activity at lower elevations in areas surrounding Cody,” Lasseter said. “Outdoor enthusiasts are reminded to be bear aware and take preventative action to avoid conflicts with bears.”

Outdoorsmen should remain alert and watch for evidence of bear activity such as tracks, scat, and diggings. Hikers, fisherman, antler hunters, or anyone else recreating in areas that could be occupied by bears should take precautions, travel in groups and carry a deterrent such as bear spray. Bears observed in or near residential areas should be immediately reported to Game and Fish.

The Conservancy’s staff will monitor the trail for signs of bears and will make a determination of when there seems to be less activity. At that time, they will reopen the trail to public use.

“We thank the public for their cooperation and support, and acknowledge the efforts of residents and visitors of Park County toward grizzly bear recovery,” Lasseter said.