Either bring or buy bear spray. Very, very active bears again this year. This may pose a bit of a problem for at one time, my dad and I would hike the Larch valley twice a year. I cannot remember when but some time ago, because of a couple of bear attacks, they put in a rule that you need to be in a party of six.
See attached:
http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/mtn/ours-b ... update-bykIssued 2017-07-16 (YYYY-MM-DD)
Time 11:34:12
Berry bushes border trails, roads and campgrounds. Black and grizzly bears are feeding on berries right now.
It is easy to surprise a bear that is focused on feeding. To reduce your risk:
• Make noise while on trails.
• Travel in tight groups.
• Trail running and cycling place you at much higher risk. Travel very slowly. Do not wear earbuds.
• Carry bear spray, ensure it is accessible, and know how to use it.
• Watch for fresh bear signs such as scat. Be especially careful near berry patches.
• If you see a bear, stay calm, back away slowly and leave the area. Never run.
Always meant to do Sulpher Mountain but never did. Really more of a hike then run but quick hike with the reward of great views.
Love Fairview Mountain - about 45 minute drive. Again, more of a hike in my opinion.
Closer to Banff and where the 5 Peaks Trail running series is held is the Canmore Nordic Center. Rundle's Revenge is also held there as is the Grizzly 50 K.
http://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/kanana ... ctivities/ Tons off options and trails but if you go to the race sites, you can find combinations from 7 - 25 K or so.
Endless number of trails. The only problem is that my guess is 90+% of the users when there is not a trail race are mountain bikers. Now if you wanted to ride, you can rent a bike on site.
http://trailsports.ab.ca/Have not made it out there to mountain bike as my total focus is on road cycling - have a 152 K ride in about 40 days and then two weeks after that, a 160 K ride. My mountain bike skills range from barely adequate to they suck so I am not ready nor have to time to get to the mountains this year.
Canmore is close and has some more options for you.
https://canmore.ca/recreation-facility/trailsUnder no circumstances wear bear bells - only attracts them. Instead, yell out Hey Bear, Oh Bear as most know about humans and will attempt to avoid contact.