News Release

Park Trails to Close at Night Due to Bear Activity

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News Release Date: August 26, 2021

Bears are frequenting Sitka National Historical Park and Indian River. Be advised that because of the increased bear activity, the Park is temporarily closing the entire trail system at night to protect both people and bears. All park trails will be closed 7 PM to 7 AM until further notice in the vicinity of Indian River and Totem Trail based on bear activity. The Riverview Trail, and the Russian Memorial Loop Trail remain closed at all times. The Totem Trail is open for day use only. Additional select daytime trail closures will also be in effect when needed, depending on bear activity. Trail status signs are posted at trail heads and trail junctions. Red indicates trails are closed due to consistent bear activity. Yellow indicates one should use caution as a bear encounter is possible, and some trails may be closed. Green indicates all trails are open and encountering a bear is less likely. Please help keep yourself and the bears safe by respecting the trail status and temporary closures.Thank you! Daytime trail users are encouraged to be alert, make noise in areas of limited visibility, keep pets on leash and avoid areas that have recent signs of bear activity (tracks, scat, or active fishing). For additional information on bear safety visit https://www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm or call the Visitor Center at [phone].