Wildlife Black Bear
550–650 black bears call the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem home. Around Jackson Hole, they're frequently brown, cinnamon, or blonde, and are often mistaken for grizzlies. They prefer forested terrain and are more likely to appear near trailheads, campsites, and lakeshore areas than deep in the backcountry.
Behaving in Bear Country
- Plan your route wisely and stick to paths
- Travel in packs
- Make noise on the trail
- Always carry bear spray
- Secure your food with bear boxes
Black Bear Encounters
If the bear hasn't seen you
Move away quickly and quietly while the bear isn't looking. Black bears will typically flee if given the opportunity.
If the bear has seen you
Do not run. Talk to the bear calmly — let it know you're human. Back away slowly. Black bears are more likely to disengage if you appear confident and non-threatening.
If the bear is following you
Yell, wave your arms, make yourself as large as possible. Black bears respond to assertive behavior. Do not turn and run — get your spray ready.
If the bear charges at you
Deploy spray when the bear is within range. If contact is made: fight back aggressively. Target the nose, eyes, and muzzle. Use anything available. Do not play dead.
Wild Facts
Black bears run up to 35 mph. Humans only run 8 mph. Stay at least 100 yards away.
Black bears are excellent climbers, their curved claws can grip bark easily.