The following video was taken on July 4th by Amanda Wylie who was out for a solo hike through Glacier National Park when she encountered a massive grizzly bear. She had seen signs of grizzlies in the area prior to encounter in the form of tracks, scat and dug up roots and was alert and ready before coming face to face with the apex predator.
In the footage you can see Wylie’s hand shaking under extreme duress as takes aim with her bear spray and slowly backs away. She credits a bear safety video she watched before receiving her backcountry permit with helping her safely manage the life threatening situation. The grizzly followed Wylie for a short time before turning away, at which point she “rejoiced, knowing I would live to see another day and have an amazing encounter story to share.”
“July 4th I had my first grizzly encounter. I noticed bear tracks in the mud, fresh scat, and dug up roots. I kept my eyes peeled but saw no threat and kept hiking. I listen for the birds and smaller animals to warn me of a bigger threat based on their actions. That’s when I watch a prairie dog leap from my right side, to the left side of the trail. I thought to myself: how many bears have seen me while I haven’t seen them?
I look to my right to find a grizzly 2x my size on his hind legs, paws up. Terrified, I reminded myself not to run and said aloud “Oh my god, it’s happening.” The safety video I watched before getting my backcountry permit immediately played in my mind. I took out my bear spray, got low and backed away slowly from the bear. I talked to him nice and once I felt a safe enough distance away, I got my phone out to record wondering if these would be my last moments. Any sudden or unexpected behaviors by me could have turned this curious grizzly into a defensive one.
He followed me down the trail, off the trail and eventually shook his body, which let me know I could relax a little. Once he turned away I rejoiced, knowing I would live to see another day and have an amazing encounter story to share.”
Glacier National Park Guidelines For Safely Hiking In Country:
Make Noise
Bears usually move out of the way if they hear people approaching. Bear bells are not adequate or effective. Calling out and clapping at regular intervals are better ways to make your presence known. Do your best never to surprise a bear.
Hike in Groups
Hiking in groups significantly decreases your chances of having a negative bear encounter. There have not been any reported attacks on groups of four or more in Glacier. If you’re a solo hiker looking for company, check the Ranger-led Activity page for guided hikes.
Don’t Run on Trails
Joggers and runners risk surprising a bear on the trail. Trail running is strongly discouraged.
Carry Bear Spray
Bear spray is an inexpensive way to deter bear attacks and has been shown to be the most effective deterrent. Be sure you know how to use it and that you are carrying it in an accessible place. Check the Ranger-led Activity page for summer demonstrations.
Be Aware of Surroundings
Some environmental conditions make it hard for bears to see, hear, or smell approaching hikers. Be particularly careful by streams, against the wind, or in dense vegetation. A blind corner or a rise in the trail also requires special attention. Look for scat and tracks. Bears spend a lot of time eating, so be extra alert when hiking in obvious feeding areas like berry patches, cow parsnip thickets, or fields of glacier lilies. Always keep children close. Avoid hiking very early in the morning, very late in the day, or after dark.
Secure Food and Garbage
Never leave food, garbage, or anything used to prepare, consume, store, or transport food unattended. This includes your backpack or day pack. Secure all food and odorous items safely and pack out all garbage. Other scented items include toiletries, feminine products, sunscreen, etc.
