The popular trail features several bridges across Eagle River and associated side channels, and winds past a number of beaver dams.
“Black and brown bears use the bridges and dams as fishing platforms, increasing the risk of human-bear conflict,” said Ben Corwin, Chugach State Park Superintendent. “Every season, we close the trail to protect the safety and well-being of both humans and bears.”
The closure does not affect the Iditarod/Crow Pass trail, the Rodak Loop and its viewing platforms, or the Dew Mound Trail – all accessible from the Eagle River Nature Center trailhead. The Albert Loop trail is targeted for reopening at freeze-up when most bears go into hibernation.
People recreating in Alaska State Parks are encouraged to take appropriate bear-aware precautions and be prepared to encounter bears and other wild animals.