Whistler, British Columbia, is most well known for it’s incredible skiing and snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb. It is the largest ski resort in North America and features some of the gnarliest in-bound terrain of anywhere on the continent. However the summer in Whistler can be even more stunning than the winter, with abundant wildlife and phenomenal green hikes and bike rides available to visitors and residents.
Wildlife is a big draw to the resort town, with birds, beavers, pikas, marmots, and plenty of other animals calling the area their home. The most beloved animal, though, is certainly the black bear. There are more than 50 black bears that call Whistler Valley their home, and they emerge from hibernation around mid-April to spend the summer searching for food. There are plenty of bear viewing tours available to make it very likely that you’ll spot one on your trip, but you’re also pretty likely to see one while you’re simply exploring the area.
This Onewheel rider evidently wasn’t searching for black bears when he came across a mother and several cubs. The mother black bear, clearly protective of her young, briefly charged at the rider, scaring the person into picking up speed.
Fortunately the rider got away without any problems, but the video does serve as a good reminder toward bear safety in the area. Making noise and traveling in groups is a great way to avoid bear encounters while on trails, and it’s important that people carry bear spray and understand how to use it. Additionally avoiding trails at dawn and dusk can lower the risk of an encounter. While black bears are the most common, grizzly bears do live in the Whistler area and sightings are becoming more common.
If you see a bear, you must give it plenty of space. Back away slowly and check around for other bears, cubs, or a food source. Go back the way you came or give the bear a wide berth (if you must continue). Speak firmly and calmly to show that you aren’t a threat to the animal.
