Mount Work Regional Park trails closed due to cougar activity

The Capital Regional District (CRD) has announced the temporary closure of several trails in Mount Work Regional Park-Hartland due to reported cougar activity. The decision follows consultations with the BC Conservation Officer Service.

The specific mountain biking trails affected by the closure include Inventive, The Plunge, The Plunge Extension, Little Face, and Easy Rider. Officials have advised visitors to stay out of the closed sections and to keep all pets on a leash while in the park.

To ensure public safety, the CRD and the BC Conservation Officer Service recommend that visitors remain alert for signs of wildlife, such as tracks or scat, and properly secure all food and garbage. In the event of a cougar encounter, officials advise staying calm, maintaining eye contact, and backing away slowly without turning one's back or running.