u/TrailRunnerYYC

Note: bear warning for the Minnewanka trail and campground

https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/bulletins/9118e816-54da-4998-b422-570051704653

First tattoo last June (!). Intent was to add stars to the sky, each representing the completion of an ultra-distance race 50 miles or longer.

Add color ? Tattoo the other calf ? Expand on the same leg ?

On Friday, on Sulphur Mountain, I came upon two female elk and a calf grazing on the slope as I ran downhill on the switchbacks trails.

A family of 4 adults and 5 children were hiking up the same switchback, and passed within less than 3 meters of the elk, stopping to take a photo as they passed. Luckily, the grazing elk ignored them (I gently mentioned to the parents of the group that they should be more careful in the future ...)

Then, as I backed away up the trail to wait out the elk before passing, one of the already-agitated females made eye contact, stepped up onto the trail, and charged towards me ! I jumped downslope into the thicker trees and away from her - reaching the lower switchback and continuing to back away down the trail.

Elk safety guideline reminders:

- The safe distance is 30 meters minimum

- May and June are calving season; females will aggressively defend their young

- Always be situationally aware and make plenty of noise to avoid surprise

- If charged, do not run, but do not stand still; move away and take cover behind solid objects

- Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it

https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/securite-safety/faunesecurite-wildlifesafety/wapiti-elk

If you encounter elk, moose, bears, or cougars within the townsite or maintained areas / trails - retreat to safety, and then call dispatch to report it @ 403-762-1470

And no: I did not pet that dawg