Multiple SLO mountain lion sightings prompt closure of Lemon Grove Loop

San Luis Obispo just closed their second trail in six months due to mountain lion sightings, the most recent shut down is eerily close to downtown SLO.

Park Ranger Coby Whitaker has only caught a couple of fleeting glances at a Mountain Lion in his line of work.

“It’s really not that common, they say you’re lucky to see one in your lifetime,” said Whitaker.

While it’s rare to spot the ferocious felines, rangers say a trail closure is even more of a rarity.

“Typically a mountain lion sighting is recorded, and warnings are put up, and if there’s any type a strange behavior further steps would be enacted,” said Park Superintendent Ken Klis.

Bikers were even caught off guard Wednesday afternoon by a barricade at the trailhead of Lemon Grove Loop in the Cerro San Luis National Reserve.

“Is it scary? I think there’s just a heightened level of awareness when you see the signs out. I think I go a little slower and keep my eyes out, particularly under the oaks,” said Chris Manning, a SLO cyclist.

“They’re pretty stealthy they’re hard to run across because there are usually hiding or hear you coming or smell you coming much earlier than you are aware of them,” said Klis

After two mountain lion sightings, during daytime hours in the past week, SLO Parks and Rec officials shut down the trail.

“I’m not that far out of the city so I don’t feel that threatened, if I was further up on Cuesta I’d feel a lot more cautious,” said Manning.

Wildlife officials say it’s uncommon to be attacked by the primarily nocturnal members of the cougar family.

“They’re a vital part to our eco-system, and they’re to be respected,” said Whitaker.

However, if you do come face-to-face with a mountain lion, park rangers say you should resist your first instinct to run away and instead, act big and tall.

“Make noise. If you have small children or small pets with you, grab them up, make sure you have them and then slowly retreat. You don’t want to turn your back to the animal because they may take it as a prey action,” said Whitaker.

The trail will be closed for an undetermined amount of time.

Park rangers will be using remote-sensing wildlife game cameras to better understand the mountain lion’s activities.

If you do pass the barricade, you could face a $561 fine – not to mention the risk of injury or death.