Comprehensive guide on bear behavior, proper food storage, and what to do if you encounter these magnificent creatures on the trail.
Encountering wildlife is one of the greatest rewards of wilderness travel, but it also presents real risks. Bears, in particular, demand respect and understanding. This guide provides essential knowledge for safely traveling through bear country, from prevention strategies to encounter protocols.
Understanding bear behavior, proper food storage, and knowing how to react during encounters can prevent dangerous situations and ensure both your safety and the bears' well-being.
Black bears are more common and generally less aggressive, but both species demand respect. Grizzlies are larger, more powerful, and can be more defensive, especially when surprised or with cubs.
Key differences: Grizzlies have a prominent shoulder hump, dished face, and longer claws. Black bears have straighter profiles and shorter claws.
Bears may stand on hind legs to see or smell better—this is curiosity, not aggression. Huffing, jaw popping, and swatting the ground are warning signs. A bear that charges and stops short is usually bluffing, but take it seriously.
The best bear encounter is one that never happens. Proper food storage is your first line of defense.
Hard-sided bear canisters are required in many areas and are the most reliable method. Store all food, scented items (toiletries, trash), and cooking equipment inside. Place canister at least 100 feet from your tent and cooking area.
For comprehensive gear recommendations, see our backpacking checklist.
If canisters aren't required, hanging food is an alternative. Use the counterbalance method: hang food at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from tree trunk. This method is less reliable than canisters, especially for determined bears.
Don't run. Running can trigger a chase response. Stay calm, speak calmly, and slowly back away while facing the bear.
Speak in a calm, low voice. Let the bear know you're human. Wave your arms slowly to appear larger. Avoid direct eye contact, which can be perceived as a threat.
Most charges are bluffs. Stand your ground. If it's a black bear and it attacks, fight back aggressively. If it's a grizzly and it attacks, play dead: lie face down, protect your neck, and spread your legs to make it harder to flip you.
For emergency protocols, see our contingency planning guide.