What should I do if I encounter a bear?
Initial Encounter
If you see a bear, stop and assess the situation. If the bear hasn't noticed you, quietly back away. If it has, speak in a calm, low voice to let it know you're human. Avoid direct eye contact, which can be seen as a threat.
Never run—bears can sprint up to 35 mph. Running may trigger a chase. Instead, back away slowly while keeping the bear in view. If the bear stands on its hind legs, it's usually just curious, not aggressive.
- Stay calm, do not run
- Speak in a low, calm voice
- Back away slowly, keep bear in sight
- Avoid direct eye contact
If a Bear Approaches or Charges
If a bear approaches, stand your ground and make yourself look large. Group together if with others. Use bear spray when the bear is within 30–40 feet, aiming slightly downward and spraying in short bursts.
If a black bear makes contact, fight back with anything you have—this is appropriate for a predatory attack. If a grizzly bear attacks, play dead by lying face down, protecting your neck and head. If the attack persists, fight back.
- Use bear spray at 30–40 feet
- Stand tall, group together
- Black bear attack: fight back
- Grizzly attack: play dead, then fight if it continues
Common mistakes
- Running away—this can trigger a bear's predatory chase instinct.
- Using bear spray too late or not at all because you're panicking.
- Playing dead for a black bear attack, which could be predatory and require fighting back.
