Lake Baikal's South Coast: Bear Activity Forces Trail Closures

Authorities have closed all six official tourist routes along the southwestern coast of Lake Baikal near the Circum-Baikal Railway. The ban, issued by the "Zapovednoye Pribaikalye" federal state budget institution, remains in effect until further notice. The closures follow reports from local forestry managers regarding increased bear activity near the railway, the coastline, and recreation centers. Experts, including outdoor activity specialist Aleksey Trusov, note that bears become more aggressive in the autumn as they seek high-calorie food sources and waste before winter hibernation. The restriction covers all six sanctioned trails in the area. A specific date for reopening has not been set due to the unpredictable nature of animal movements. There is also a continued risk of bear sightings on the outskirts of settlements within the Pribaikalsky National Park.