Cougar Encounter Prompts Section Closure at Whistler Bike Park

Photo: USFS

The dream of ripping Whistler Blackcomb’s legendary bike park trails has been put on pause. The resort has shut down major sections of the mountain, including the Ascent Trail and all Blackcomb bike trails, following a series of alarmingly close cougar encounters this past weekend.

While no attacks have been reported, the incidents have been unnervingly tense. On Sunday morning, a family on a hike on the Blackcomb side found themselves in a terrifying position with one cougar on the trail above them and another below. The mother's quick thinking to bang her hiking poles together created enough noise to scare the predators away.

This wasn't an isolated event. In another heart-pounding incident, a mountain biker was reportedly pursued by a cougar for nearly 1,000 feet before the cat broke off the chase. The BC Conservation Officer Service has increased patrols but has yet to locate the animals.

"It’s a series of events similar in nature, which is quite unusual,” Sgt. Chris Boyle of the Conservation Officer Service told Global News, noting a troubling pattern of similar activity in the region.

For now, the trails remain closed. Officials are urging all visitors to remain vigilant, check for the latest updates before heading out, and report any sightings immediately. While conservation officers hope the cougars will move on their own, they haven't ruled out more serious action if the situation escalates.

It’s important to note: not all of the bike park is closed—many trails remain open. Stay safe and stay informed.