Most natural areas in the Pacific Northwest are inhabited by black bears. The northern Cascade Range is also home to a sparse population of grizzly bears. Although unlikely, you may encounter bears in several of the national parks in the Northwest.
Most bears tend to avoid people.
In most cases, if you give a bear the opportunity to do the right thing, it will. Take the precautions described to help ensure that your visit to this wild and beautiful area is safe and enjoyable. Bears are curious, intelligent and potentially dangerous animals, but undue fear of bears can endanger both bears and people. Many bears are killed each year by people who are afraid of them. Respecting bears and learning proper behavior in their territory will help so that if you encounter a bear, neither of you will suffer from the experience.