Tips for Recreating in Bear Country

In addition to the epic numbers of huckleberries we are hearing about on the Whitefish Trail, serviceberries, buffalo-berries, mountain ash berries, chokecherries, and wild raspberries are also plentiful. AND an important reminder that humans are not the only ones picking berries! If you are out on the hunt for huckleberries, remember to be Bear Aware - hike and pick with a friend or two, make noise, and carry bear spray.

Recreating in bear country doesn't need to be a fearful experience. Deliberate attacks on people are very rare. Bears prefer to avoid people, although bears may behave defensively when surprised, feeling cornered, or protecting their food or cubs. Bears' blustery behavior is meant to warn you to stay away. It seems scary, but it is usually a sign of stress - not an impending attack. Surprising a bear at close range is both the most common cause of incidents and the most avoidable! So, make some noise out there when visibility along the trail is limited! Note: bear bells are not effective, your voice is.

Take the time to refresh your understanding of bear behavior (see BearWise Safety Tips), be aware when recreating, and always carry bear spray. And, always report any bear encounter to Montana FWP!

Stay alert and happy berry picking!

Note: We will host additional Bear Aware lectures and hikes in September - keep an eye on our Events page for details. Inert bear spray cans will be available for practice. Thank you MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Heart of the Rockies, National Fish & Wildlife Foundation, and the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) for supporting our Bear Aware outreach programs.