Grizzly bear guarding an elk carcass
Steve Michel
May 17, 2013
If you are enjoying the long weekend in the mountain national parks, remember that bears and people are sharing the same limited space as we all wait for the snow to recede. The potential for bear encounters is high.
Be aware that we are also heading into elk calving season (mid-May to late June), and grizzlies may linger on the outskirts of communities to predate on newborn elk calves.
Always carry bear spray with you when you head out – and know how to use it!
Bear Sightings on Trails
Both grizzly and black bears have been spotted in the mountain national parks near avalanche chutes, railway tracks, roads and day use areas.
Please check Warnings and Closures before you hit the trail.
The Bear Sightings Report is not a bear “tracking” report. It is based on chance bear sightings reported by park staff and the public. A bear sighted on a trail may not be there an hour later. You may encounter a bear anytime on any trail – even close to town. Learn how to be safe.
Safety
You may encounter a bear anytime on any trail – even close to town. Remember the rhyme:
Prepare - Be Aware - Let the bears know you're there
Prepare - carry bear spray & know how to handle an encounter
Be aware - look ahead & watch for tracks, droppings, and diggings
Let the bears know you’re there - travel in a group & make noise
If you see a bear, please let us know! Call Park Dispatch (24 hrs) at 403-762-1470.
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