A grizzly was spotted in Kananaskis Country over the weekend.

The surprising encounter happened in the Kent Ridge area within the Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. 

Normally bears hibernate through the winter although it's not that uncommon for some of the males to crawl out of their dens early.

The encounter happened while two backcountry hikers were in the area on Sunday Feb. 12.

No injuries or attack occurred.

Alberta Parks closed down the trail head which also includes access to Kent Ridge North, Mount Kent and Kent South Peak.

They also advise to carry bear spray at all times, even during hibernation season, be aware of your surroundings and watch and listen for bears and tracks.

If you're unfamiliar with using bear spray, they do have tips online as well as other bear safety tips.

And if you do come across a bear you are asked to report it as soon as you can at 403-591-7755.

Kent Ridge area that's closed due to a Grizzly bear encounter