With steep inclines each uphill and downhill, this group of hikers on a slim part of the Hidden Lake Path in Glacier Nationwide Park had restricted choices to make method for an advancing grizzly bear and determined to take off working. It could seem to be commonsense to hightail it when a grizzly is headed your method, the Nationwide Park Service warns in opposition to working in case you encounter a grizzly bear. There are roughly 300 grizzly bears residing inside Glacier Nationwide Park, so understanding what to do in case you encounter one is vital earlier than setting off for a hike. To study extra discover the NPS tips for mountaineering bear nation under:
Glacier Nationwide Park To Safely Climbing in Bear Nation:
Make Noise
Bears often transfer out of the best way in the event that they hear individuals approaching. Bear bells are usually not ample or efficient. Calling out and clapping at common intervals are higher methods to make your presence identified. Do your greatest by no means to shock a bear.
Hike in Teams
Climbing in teams considerably decreases your possibilities of having a adverse bear encounter. There haven’t been any reported assaults on teams of 4 or extra in Glacier. When you’re a solo hiker on the lookout for firm, verify the Ranger-led Exercise web page for guided hikes.
Don’t Run on Trails
Joggers and runners threat shocking a bear on the path. Path working is strongly discouraged.
Carry Bear Spray
Bear spray is an affordable solution to deter bear assaults and has been proven to be the best deterrent. Make sure you understand how to make use of it and that you’re carrying it in an accessible place. Test the Ranger-led Exercise web page for summer season demonstrations.
Be Conscious of Environment
Some environmental circumstances make it arduous for bears to see, hear, or scent approaching hikers. Be notably cautious by streams, in opposition to the wind, or in dense vegetation. A blind nook or an increase within the path additionally requires particular consideration. Search for scat and tracks. Bears spend lots of time consuming, so be further alert when mountaineering in apparent feeding areas like berry patches, cow parsnip thickets, or fields of glacier lilies. At all times hold youngsters shut. Keep away from mountaineering very early within the morning, very late within the day, or after darkish.
Safe Meals and Rubbish
By no means depart meals, rubbish, or something used to organize, eat, retailer, or transport meals unattended. This consists of your backpack or day pack. Safe all meals and odorous gadgets safely and pack out all rubbish. Different scented gadgets embody toiletries, female merchandise, sunscreen, and so forth.
