Try to detour around the bear if possible. Back away slowly, but stop if it seems to agitate the bear. Assume a nonthreatening posture. Turn sideways, or bend at the knees to appear smaller. Use peripheral vision.
Bears appear to interpret direct eye contact as threatening.
Keep your pack on for protection in case of an attack. If the bear makes contact, protect your chest and abdomen by falling to the ground on your stomach, or assuming a fetal position to reduce the severity of an attack. Cover the back of your neck with your hands. Do not move until you are certain the bear has left. In rare cases bears may attack at night or after stalking people.