Hiker attacked by bear during ‘surprise encounter’ in Yellowstone National Park
The Turbid Lake Trail has been closed until further notice as bear management staff sweep the trail to make sure all hikers have been cleared out. AP
A 29-year-old solo hiker sustained serious injuries after being mauled by a bear in Yellowstone National Park, prompting authorities to temporarily close the trail where the attack occurred.
The incident happened Tuesday afternoon near Turbid Lake, a remote and scenic area of the park. According to the National Park Service (NPS), the man had a sudden, “surprise encounter” with the bear while hiking alone. He deployed bear spray, but the animal still attacked, inflicting significant — though not life-threatening — injuries to his chest and left arm.
Emergency responders initially transported the hiker to a nearby clinic by ambulance before he was airlifted to a hospital for further treatment. His identity has not been released.
Officials believe the bear may have been a grizzly, based on its size and behavior, though its species and gender have not yet been confirmed. Grizzly bears in Yellowstone can weigh up to 600 pounds for males and 350 pounds for females.
Because the attack appeared to be a defensive response during a surprise encounter, the park stated it will not take any management action against the bear.
The Turbid Lake Trail has been closed until further notice as bear management teams ensure the area is safe and cleared of other hikers.
This marks the first bear-related injury in Yellowstone since 2021, when Carl Mock, 40, died after being mauled by a grizzly near Baker’s Hole campground. He suffered a massive stroke two days after the attack, according to reports.
Other fatal bear encounters have occurred in nearby areas, including the 2023 death of avid hiker Amy Adamson, who was killed by a grizzly while hiking just west of the park in Montana. Her death was confirmed through tracks found at the scene.
The most recent incident remains under investigation.
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