Approximately 200 grizzlies and more than 400 black bears roam the Park s backcounty. And while the sightings are awe-inspiring, sometimes they can be tragic as well. Bears are shy creatures that generally will avoid contact with humans. They are not, however, timid. If a bear is startled or surprised, they have have a propensity to attack, injure and sometimes kill humans.
Mother bears with cubs are especially dangerous, particularly if a hiker gets between cub and sow.
Over the past several years, grizzlies have been blamed in the deaths of nine Park visitors. Under the policy, any bears deemed as problem bears are removed. All bears are dangerous. Confrontations with bears on Park trails are rare, but not unheard of. The possibility of meeting up with a bear while hiking or camping is real.