What to do if you encounter a grizzly bear

If a hiker encounters a grizzly bear, the safest response is usually to stay calm, avoid sudden movements, back away slowly, and be ready to use bear spray if the bear approaches. If the bear makes contact, the recommended action is generally to play dead by lying flat on your stomach and protecting your neck and head.

Quick scoop

  • Do not run. Running can trigger a chase response.
  • Talk calmly and avoid direct eye contact. This can help the bear see you as non-threatening.
  • Back away slowly. Move at an angle if possible, and give the bear space.
  • Have bear spray ready. If the bear charges and gets close, use it according to the label directions.
  • If the bear attacks, play dead. Lie on your stomach, keep your pack on if you have one, cover your neck, and stay still until the bear leaves.

What not to do

Do not scream, throw things unless the bear is already closing in and you are using that as part of a defensive response, or try to climb a tree. Those actions can make the situation worse or are ineffective against a grizzly.

Best prevention

The best way to handle a grizzly encounter is to avoid surprising one in the first place. Make noise while hiking, travel in groups when possible, keep an eye out in brushy or low-visibility areas, and carry bear spray where grizzlies live.

When to treat it as serious

If the bear follows you, keeps approaching, or appears to stalk you, treat it as a serious threat and use your defensive tools immediately, especially bear spray if it closes distance. If contact happens, defensive guidance shifts to playing dead rather than fighting back.

TL;DR: Stay calm, back away slowly, use bear spray if needed, and if a grizzly physically attacks, play dead and protect your neck until it leaves.

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