My name is Les McDonald. My belief is that our amazing and sacred spaces should be shared with reverence and meaning because they are such meaningful gifts to all of us. I have been filming documentary style travel and nature videos for much of my adult life. I lived in Banff National Park for over 22 years ago and have travelled Canada's destinations extensively as a passion. Let's explore this amazing country together. Beyond the map.
I just wanted to thank you for posting your video. It inspired me to make my own Boba Fett armor and outfit. I lost two friends within 3 months from each other and watching your video and delving into into creating my outfit helped get my head out of grieving. The work I put into my helmet was actually certified by Lucasfilm as a film accurate ROTJ helmet. So thank you so much for posting your video.
What are your thoughts on bear spray if a grizzly charges you? Would it be a good idea to stand your ground and use the bear spray and horn if the bears charges/gets too close?
I'm not a bear spray advocate, but it's not say it doesn't work. But it's fact that many grizzly bears have only gotten more pissed off after being sprayed. Look at all of the people who get pepper sprayed in riots etc...many of them fall to their knees, but many of them also get even more enraged. My personal view is, that if a black bear attacks, I stand my ground and fight like hell. If a grizzly attacks I play dead. There's a whole other conversation to be had there. Perhaps it's time for another video!
When I was 14, I was fishing in a California Sierra stream when I heard something nearby. It sounded like a goat, so I approached the brush to take a look. Then suddenly the bushes erupted and a horrible roar occurred. I was being rushed by a very angry bear. For a bare second I saw the bushes bouncing toward me. There was no conscientiousness or decision making in the moment. I ran.. the sounds behind me were horrible. It's like a dream because I just remember flying over a log as if I was picked up by angels. I could hear the horrible sounds behind me. I never looked back and ran out of the area. My mind recorded the minimum in the moment and I don't know how I got so much speed over the river rocks. Instinct prevailed!
Visited Banff and Jasper for the second time last week. Went 2 years ago for the first time. Been watching your videos and they are fantastic! Would love to have a quick chat with you to discuss the wildlife I saw and show you some pictures.
The likelihood is low but...don't keep any food in your tent. There are bear proof lockers at every campsite. And there will be bear warnings if bears have been sight2d near the campground
"Les McDonald" is perhaps the probably the most Canadian name I've ever heard, and I've lived my whole life in Alberta. Great video, thanks for the valuable information!
Thanks for sharing! I went on a solo hike on Jasper recently and encountered not one but two grizzlies during the hike. Everything went just fine, they didn’t cared about me. I did the whole hike singing and clapping once in a while to make noise.
You can tell he is from Canada 🇨🇦 predators have all the rights, bear spray it never back away from a bear stand your ground, backing away is a sign of weakness.
After 22 years in the back country of the Canadian Wilderness, I'd say I'll take my chances using my experience and wisdom. Ots worked for me ans many others I know who have also had multiple bear encounters. You have a story to share about a bear encounter you've personally experienced? Please share it with our audience.
Well as a martial artist it's true with people, and animals its best to avoid physical confrontation at all costs. But if you can't avoid it, fight like you are gonna win it.
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Surving a mauling is still a horrendous experience. One I don't want my loved ones or I to go through. I will always have bear spray and a firearm in bear country (wear firearms are legal to carry).
I usually hike in trail running shoes. Never been to Canadian Rockies tho I have been to Colorado Rockies. Would you suggest hiking boots over trail running shoes for Banff? I'll Prob be doing Big beehive/6 Glaciers hike in June.
The valley of the 6 Glaciers is a wonderful hike. Trail shoes are fine but you will encounter scree and rocks that might make a hiking boot a better choice. But you can do it. And not a high ankle boot. Just a hiking shoe with firm soles. (And make sure they are broken in.)
Hey Kelly. I'd say any noise can't hurt. But you want to enjoy the natural sounds. I'd just make noise. Whatever works for you, and makes the bears aware of your presence. Then you should be good. And travel in groups of 3 or more if you can.
yeah i go out of my way to avoid these guys. Buddies tricked me into camping in grizzly territory, while on acid, and trekkimg through a dark forest at 1 at night.
Hi from Florida USA. Great video! I'm visiting for the first time in August. Your magical footage made me feel more comfortable going it alone about the bear country. I needed that. ✌️
