A grizzly was sighted on Monday morning at the intersection of Honey and Little Buddha Trails near Mountain Station.
Cab driver Dale Morris took his golden retriever Leif for a walk to celebrate his eighth birthday. Around 10:30 a.m. Leif stopped ahead in the trail, wagging his tail.
"That's what he does when he sees bikers. H e wants to run up and say hi," said Morris. "But then he started barking. My dog doesn't usually bark," he said.
Once Morris got closer he saw what had caught Leif's attention: a large, dark-coloured grizzly bear.
"It was supposed to be a special walk. It ended up being more special than we could hope for," he said.
According to Morris, the grizzly stood up on its hind legs. Leif then chased him away.
"I couldn't believe it," said Morris.
There have been multiple reports of a grizzly in the area on Facebook and in the mountain biking community. Morris said this is only the most recent time he's seen the bear.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay has extended the closure of the Nelson-Salmo Great Northern Trail because of continuing bear activity.
The RDCK expects to re-open the trail on June 30.
Anyone walking or mountain biking in the area should use extra caution and consider carrying bear spray.
Do not attempt to view or approach the bears. Do not leave garbage or food on trails.
To report a sighting call 1-877-952-7277.