A woman was hospitalized in Anchorage, Alaska, this week after encountering a brown bear on the Prospect Heights’ Wolverine Bowl trail. She used bear spray to fend off the animal and escape, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
The incident occurred as the woman was running alone on the trail. Biologists from the department visited the site but did not locate the bear. The woman was taken to a local hospital for treatment, though further details about her condition were not disclosed.
Trail Safety and Bear Encounter Protocols
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game issued guidance following the attack, emphasizing precautions for hikers in bear country. Officials noted that thick summer foliage can obscure sightlines, increasing the risk of surprise encounters. They recommended:
- Choosing routes with good visibility and avoiding areas near known attractants, such as salmon-bearing streams.
- Carrying deterrents like bear spray or firearms.
- Hiking in groups and making noise to avoid surprising bears.
- Staying alert for signs of bears, including tracks or scat.
- Keeping pets on leashes and avoiding close approaches to wildlife.
The department also urged reporting any aggressive or unusually behaving wildlife to authorities.
Behavioral Guidance During Bear Encounters
Officials provided specific instructions for responding to a bear encounter:
- If you surprise a bear, especially one with cubs or near a food cache, it may react defensively. Signs of agitation can include huffing, stomping, popping sounds with teeth, salivation, or laying ears back.
- Stay calm and stand your ground—do not run. If the bear charges or approaches, ready your deterrent while maintaining eye contact.
- If the bear is stationary, move away slowly while keeping an eye on it. Never turn your back.
- Avoid running, as this may trigger a chase response.
Trail Closures and Warning Signs
The Prospect Heights trailhead has posted warning signs advising hikers to avoid closed trails. The department reiterated that deterrents and situational awareness are critical in reducing risks during outdoor activities in bear habitats.
While the bear involved in this incident was not located, officials continue to monitor the area for signs of wildlife activity.