Hiker mauled by bear in Yellowstone during surprise encounter near Turbid Lake; trail closed
Park officials say the hiker sustained significant but non-life-threatening injuries; the incident was described as a defensive bear reaction during a surprise encounter, and the Turbid Lake Trail is closed as bear-management sweeps cont…
A solo hiker in Yellowstone National Park sustained significant injuries after a bear mauled him in a surprise encounter Tuesday afternoon near Turbid Lake, park officials said. The 29-year-old man, whose name has not been released, was hiking alone when the bear appeared. He immediately deployed bear spray, but the animal attacked nonetheless. The National Park Service said the hiker was transported by ambulance to a local clinic before being airlifted to a nearby hospital.
Park officials described the attack as a defensive reaction by the bear during a surprise encounter. The injuries to the hiker’s chest and left arm were described as significant but not life-threatening. While officials noted the animal’s gender and exact species have not yet been confirmed, they said the bear was likely a grizzly based on its size and behavior. The Turbid Lake Trail has been closed until further notice as bear-management staff sweep the area to ensure all hikers have been cleared out.
The park said the incident stemmed from a defensive bear reaction during an unexpected encounter, and, as a result, there will be no management action taken against the bear. The Turbid Lake Trail closure will remain in place while rangers conduct searches and monitoring along the route.
This incident marks the first bear-injury event in Yellowstone since 2021, according to park records. Authorities also note that other hikers have been injured or killed in bear encounters on the outskirts of the 3,472-square-mile park, underscoring the ongoing risk bears pose to visitors in bear country. The latest attack remains under investigation as rangers review details and safety protocols for future encounters.
Officials emphasize that bear activity in the region is not unusual for this time of year and remind hikers to carry bear spray, travel in groups when possible, make noise to avoid surprising bears, and maintain a safe distance if an encounter occurs.
Authorities cautioned that conditions in backcountry areas can change rapidly and that close observation of wildlife is essential for both visitor safety and animal welfare. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available and the incident is reviewed by park officials.
