Home / Environment / Hiker Escapes Grizzly Attack in B.C. Backcountry
Hiker Escapes Grizzly Attack in B.C. Backcountry
11 Aug
Summary
- A lone hiker survived a grizzly bear attack near Pemberton, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.
- This is the second grizzly attack in the region within a week, both involving solo hikers.
- Experts recommend assessing trails and potentially relocating them away from bear habitats.
A man hiking alone in the Rutherford Creek drainage near Pemberton, B.C., survived a grizzly bear attack on Sunday evening. The encounter was deemed defensive, resulting from a surprise, close-range encounter. The hiker sustained non-life-threatening injuries and sought medical attention independently.
This incident follows another grizzly attack on August 2 near Pearson Ridge, approximately 70 kilometres north of Pemberton. A 72-year-old woman hiking alone suffered a broken neck and lacerations when attacked by a female grizzly with cubs. Officials stated this attack was also defensive.
Bear biologist Wayne McCrory highlighted that conflicts often arise when human activities like camping and trails overlap with grizzly feeding areas, particularly during late summer when bears intensely feed before hibernation. He advocates for improved bear habitat mapping and risk assessments to potentially realign trails away from high-hazard zones.
Research scientist Lana Ciarniello supports rerouting trails away from grizzly habitats and suggests temporary closures during berry seasons. A proposal is underway to prohibit camping and motorized vehicles in Brandywine Meadows from June 1 to November 1, an area crucial for grizzlies raising cubs. Both experts emphasize that these measures protect both people and bears.
Recommendations for backcountry safety include avoiding travel at dawn and dusk, carrying bear spray, recognizing bear markings on trees indicating travel routes, and traveling in groups while making noise to reduce the chances of encounters.
