← Back
Yellow caution sign reading Bear in the Area with a bear silhouette, posted in a green forest

Bear Safety

Bears live where we hike. Most want nothing to do with us — your awareness, preparation, and respect help keep both bears and people safe. Review the guides below for grizzly and black bear country.

Grizzly Bear Safety

Grizzly bears are powerful, intelligent, and play a vital role in our mountain ecosystems. Most encounters are avoidable. Your awareness and actions can keep both you and bears safe.

Grizzly Bear Safety in the Wilderness infographic: know the risk, prevent encounters, what to do if you encounter a bear, bear spray instructions, and coexistence tips

Black Bear Safety

Black bears are common in many areas and are usually shy and non-aggressive. By taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce the chance of an encounter — and stay safe if you do see one.

Black Bear Safety in the Wilderness infographic: know the facts, prevent encounters, what to do if you see a black bear, bear spray guidance, and coexistence tips