Several hiking trails at Glacier National Park have been temporarily closed following a bear encounter in Glacier Park on September 19, 2024. A 35-year-old male hiker was bitten on the leg by a bear while trekking near the Grinnell Overlook. The bear, startled by the group, bit the man below the knee before they successfully repelled it using bear spray.
Preparedness and Response
According to a statement from the National Park Service (NPS), the group was hiking in foggy conditions, which likely limited their bear visibility. Despite the unexpected encounter, the hikers were well-prepared with a first aid kit, bear spray, and emergency communication devices.
After the incident, they contacted authorities via satellite messenger and bandaged the hiker’s wound before he hiked over a mile to reach a rescue helicopter. He was then transported to an ambulance and later to a hospital in Whitefish.
John Waller, a supervisory wildlife biologist with the NPS, emphasized the importance of Glacier Park hiking safety. “The hiking party maintained their composure and followed safety protocols, which ultimately helped prevent further injury,” Waller stated.
Trail Closures and Warnings
In response to the bear encounter, park rangers have imposed Glacier National Park trail closures, including the Garden Wall, Grinnell Glacier Overlook, Highline Hill, to ensure visitor safety while they assess the situation. The National Park Service has also issued warnings for 16 areas with heightened bear activity, including popular sites like Boulder Lake and Cracker Lake.
“Visitors are reminded that fall is critical for bears,” the NPS cautioned. “As bears prepare for winter hibernation, they become more active and require significant calories to sustain themselves through the cold months.” This increase in bear activity can lead to more frequent human encounters, especially when bears are drawn to food sources or unusual smells.
Ongoing Safety Measures
The recent Glacier National Park bear encounter is particularly concerning, as it marks the second bear-related incident in Montana within a short period. Earlier in September, a black bear attacked a 3-year-old girl near Yellowstone National Park, heightening concerns about bear interactions across the state.
While bear attacks remain relatively rare, experts recommend increased vigilance during this season. Both black and grizzly bears enter a “feeding mode” as they prepare for hibernation, making them more aggressive in their search for food. It is estimated that adult black bears aim to consume around 20,000 calories daily before hibernation, increasing the potential for encounters with hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors planning to hike in the park are encouraged to check the Trail Status Reports for updates on closed trails in Glacier National Park. Despite the restrictions, park officials reassure that Glacier National Park remains a safe destination if guests follow safety guidelines, respect wildlife, and prioritize bear safety in national parks.
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