Steep Creek Trail will be closed next Monday through the remainder of the summer in anticipation of the return of salmon to the creek, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center announced Wednesday.
The closure is designed to limit human and bear interactions on the short walking trail, as well as provide better bear-viewing opportunities on the raised platforms adjacent to the trail, according to a press release.
“The bears have grown tolerant of visitors who move slowly and quietly on the elevated platforms, allowing people to observe natural bear behavior while having a minimal impact on the wild animals,” the release states.
Dogs, food, flavored drinks and bicycles are not permitted on the raised platforms, the release stated. Visitors are also advised to move slowly while on the platforms, and maintain a respectful attitude toward fellow bear watchers.
The Steep Creek Trailhead itself will have a yellow rope and signs informing the public of the closure. There will be signs posted around the Dredge Lakes area about it.
