(WASHINGTON D.C.) — The National Park Service is reminding visitors to take extra precautions in bear country following recent bear incidents in several national parks.
Spring and early summer are periods of increased bear activity in many parks. Bears may be moving through habitat, searching for food or protecting cubs. Visitors can reduce the chance of a dangerous encounter by staying alert, hiking in groups, making noise in low-visibility areas, storing food and trash properly and never approaching bears.
Visitors should check current park alerts before their trip and follow park-specific bear safety guidance. Bear species, terrain, food storage rules and bear spray recommendations vary across the National Park Service.
If you encounter a bear, stay calm, speak in a steady voice, back away slowly and do not make sudden movements. Visitors should report bear encounters to park staff as soon as it is safe to do so.
