While grizzlies do not present a major threat to normal human activities, a little care and respect can help reduce the already small risk. Moore stresses that people must learn to be respectful of bears, rather than to fear them. Hikers that make noise on the trail or converse normally within a group will alert a bear to their presence long before they get close enough to frighten it. Wilderness users should be alert for any sign of bear activity, such as fresh tracks, droppings, or a carcass. If you do come across such a sign, it is wise to turn back or take an alternate route so as to avoid confrontation.
Grizzly females are very protective of their young.
Despite their cuteness, travelers should recognize grizzly cubs as a sign of danger and avoid them at all times. Most importantly, be sure to store food and garbage properly when in grizzly country. Place all foodstuffs in commercially available, bear-proof containers or suspend it out of reach of bears. Campers should also cook away from their campsite and sleep in different clothes than those they cooked in, as grizzlies have an acute sense of smell. Backcountry travelers who feel uncomfortable in grizzly country can carry pepper spray for use in the event of a chance encounter with a bear.