A GORP Content Partner Adapted from Bear Aware by Bill Schneider Hiking in Bear Country Sharing the Woods with Grizzlies A grizzly bathes near Mountains Notecards from Kennan Ward . I would have to say no. If the grizzly bear were half as bad as commonly portrayed, early explorers and frontiersmen would not have gotten far across the prairies, and the opening of the West would likely have been delayed until the advent of the repeating rifle.
Nothing guarantees total safety.
Hiking in bear country adds a small risk to your trip. And being prepared doesn't only mean having the right equipment. It also means having the right knowledge. Knowledge is the best defense. Don't let the fear of bears ruin your vacation.