Logan Pass in Glacier National Park is extremely popular with visitors as it offers a combination of high elevation hiking (6,646 feet) and easy accessibility by for motorists. During peak summer months, the parking lot at Logan Pass fills up early with visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of wildlife lumbering through the pristine meadows including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even the occasional grizzly bear.
This video was taken at Logan Pass where a grizzly bear emerges from the fog along a crowded boardwalk. Glacier advises that hiking in groups can significantly decrease your chances of having a negative bear encounter and that proved correct in this instance. The hikers all joined in to collectively make a ton of noise to scare the bear away which proved effective but ended up directing the grizzly towards another group of hikers. Again the bear avoided the commotion made by the second group but remained in the area. As the group thinned out, the man behind the camera had one final encounter he describes as “legitmately terrifying.” Learn more about how to safely hike in grizzly bear country below.
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.