GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, Montana – This group of hikers came uncomfortably close to a mother grizzly bear and her cub while hiking the Iceberg Lake Trial in Montana’s Glacier National Park. The group appeared to have several firearms among them, so had the bear chosen to charge, there’s a good chance they’d be able to deter it. It’s important to note, however, that firearms aren’t as effective against bears as bear spray.
Past studies have shown that firearms are much less likely to deter grizzly bears than bear spray, with those defending themselves with a gun in a bear attack suffering an injury about 50% of the time, compared to bear spray users escaping injury most of the time. Additionally, firearms may escalate attacks, rather than deterring them, and a person is much more likely to injure themselves carrying a firearm than carrying bear spray (bear spray is non-lethal, and its effects wear off over time).
“As we were walking on Iceberg Lake Trail, we saw a mother bear with its cubs but it wasn’t the only one. This was the second mama bear we saw. Quick side note, as we were leaving a man was screaming bear behind us and a park ranger showed up. He ended up spraying the bear since he got charged. All ways carry bear spray or a gun. No where is safe in Montana, don’t forget the Moose also.”
Firearms are legal in National Parks, as long as the possessor is following all applicable federal, state, and local laws. This was not the case prior to the passing of a federal law in 2010, and firearms are still not allowed in several National Park and federal facilities.
Another note on firearms versus bear spray. As mentioned earlier, bear spray is non-lethal, while a gun can most certainly kill. This applies both to the safety of the person and to the safety of the bear. The use of bear spray in the case above kept the bear alive, while a firearm could have killed the grizzly bear and orphaned the cub.
Glacier National Park on Hiking In Bear 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.