How to Deal With Black Bears When Hiking

Encountering a black bear in the wild is a memorable experience. The American black bear is the smallest, but most common bear of North America. Once prevalent across the United States, the bear's range has been restricted by development and agricultural practices to heavily forested areas where their populations still thrive. Whenever hiking in bear country, be mindful you may encounter a bear around any turn. If you do encounter a bear when hiking, there are several steps that you can follow to protect both yourself and the bear and escape with only a memory.

Instructions

    • 1

      Plan ahead and observe trail information carefully. When planning a hiking trip into bear country, always let a third party know where you are going and for how long you plan to be gone. Most trails in national forests and national parks have updated information at the trailhead that will inform you of recent bear activity.

    • 2

      Observe your surroundings when hiking in bear country. Bears will often leave signs of their presence. Look for claw marks on trees, disturbed tree stumps or fallen logs, scat and hair on the trail. If you see any of these signs, be especially aware of your surroundings and, if possible, make your presence known to bears as well by being vocal---whistle, sing or clap as you walk.

    • 3

      Change your course if you spot a black bear in the distance. Many times, the bear will be a surprised and frightened as you during a long-distance encounter, and, like you, the bear will be glad to get away without any further contact. Speak to the bear so that it can identify you as a human and attempt to navigate upwind so the bear cannot smell you.

    • 4

      Remain calm if the black bear approaches your direction. Back away slowly while facing the bear and attempt to make loud and intimidating noises. Make yourself appear as large and as scary as you can. If the bear continues to advance, use bear mace or any other object available to defend yourself--sticks, rocks or hiking poles. Black bears are much more timid than other species and may be deterred by a strong defense and allow you to escape.