How to Deal with Bears
Most bears are timid and stay away from humans, but they can also be curious, feisty, and hungry. To avoid bear confrontations:
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Remove temptations: To head off hungry bears, pack all food in tightly sealed containers that suppress odors. At night, suspend the containers from a tree away from your campsite.
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Don’t startle them: Bears are more likely to attack if they are surprised. Never approach a bear’s recent kill, and never get between a mother and her cubs. Stay on established human trails, and give bears fair warning that you’re approaching by making noise. Talk or sing as you hike, for example. Be careful when hiking near running water or in a strong wind, as a bear may not hear you.
If you encounter a bear:
- Don’t run or make any sudden movements. Instead, spread your arms wide to appear bigger, then back off slowly.
- When they’re angry, bears “woof” and clack their teeth. If this happens, climb at least 15 feet up a tree (if you can). Don’t play dead. If you have pepper spray, use it.
