It's elk rutting season, so give them space. Photo by Keith Driver
Visitors to Banff National Park are being warned about rutting season for male bull elk. Bull elk become very aggressive during this season, and bulls can be heard bugling, and seen rubbing trees, shrubs and the ground with their antlers in order to attract cows and other bulls.
Through the 2020’s, annual warnings and dangerous encounters have been plentiful, with advisories from Parks Canada in 2024 and 2025 stating that bull elk had been charging cars, and people had been forced to climb trees, or shield themselves with a rock. Those same warnings also mentioned hiker reports of elk blocking trails. In 2024, Parks Canada specifically warned against visitors approaching the elk, after reports of close calls were caused by the elk being approached for photos.
Just last year, a male elk had to be immobilized after tangling his antlers in festive string lights, and caused him to behave aggressively throughout Tunnel Mountain Campground.
This year, Banff is once again warning visitors about the dangers of elk rutting season, and how to keep yourself safe.
Parks Canada recommends 30 metres of distance from the elk, and say to never get in between a male and female elk. Parks Canada says even parked cars between elk could prompt a charge.
Those travelling in elk areas are asked to travel in groups, and to take large detours around elk. Dogs are also to be on-leash at all times, as they could provoke the males, or could be seen as predators, like a wolf or coyote.
If an elk is already approaching you, people are advised to make themselves as large as possible, by raising their arms or using a jacket or umbrella. People can climb trees, or can try to keep a large object between themselves and the elk, such as a tree or large rock. They are also warned to not play dead during an elk encounter. All incidents should be immediately reported to Parks Canada dispatch.
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