A grizzly bear attack in British Columbia left two hikers seriously injured Sunday after they encountered a mother bear and her cubs near Pass Lake. Authorities say the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of hiking in bear country.
According to the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (COS), the pair were hiking along Farm Cabin Trail when they came across the grizzly and her two cubs. The bear charged in what investigators later determined was a defensive attack.
Both hikers were transported to a hospital and are reported to be stable and recovering. “An investigation determined the bear’s actions were defensive in nature,” COS said in a statement. “Due to the location and nature of the attack, no action will be taken against the bears.”
Officials have closed the trailhead indefinitely and issued renewed warnings for residents and visitors to remain alert in the area. COS urged hikers to make noise while on trails, heed posted warnings, and always carry bear spray that’s easily accessible.
“If planning to camp overnight, keep a clean camp by locking up food sources and storing them high off the ground and away from trees,” the agency advised.
While human encounters with grizzlies remain rare, wildlife experts stress that staying vigilant and following safety precautions can prevent future tragedies in Canada’s backcountry.
