A solo hiker was seriously injured after being mauled by a bear in Yellowstone National Park, prompting officials to close the Turbid Lake Trail. The 29-year-old man encountered the animal during the afternoon of September 16 and attempted to use bear spray, but the bear still attacked, leaving him with “significant but non-life-threatening” injuries to his chest and left arm, according to the National Park Service statement.
The hiker, who has not been named, was transported by ambulance to a nearby clinic before being airlifted to a hospital. While the man initially thought he was facing a black bear, authorities believe it was more likely a grizzly based on its size and behavior.
This marks the first reported bear-related injury in Yellowstone since 2021, officials noted. Bear management staff have closed the trail and are sweeping the area to ensure no other visitors are at risk. The specific species and gender of the bear remain unconfirmed.
Bears are among the most formidable creatures in the wild, yet most shy away from humans. Attacks, while rare, can be fatal, which is why knowing how to avoid encounters is crucial for anyone exploring bear country. But what exactly should you do if you stumble across one of these powerful animals? Click through this gallery to learn more about the eight bear species of the world—and how to stay safe around them.