A routine hike through Colorado’s scenic foothills turned into a frightening ordeal when a black bear attacked and then followed a lone hiker for nearly 30 minutes. Wildlife officials describe the incident as highly unusual, marking the state’s first reported bear attack of the year and raising concerns about increasing human-bear conflicts during an already active bear season.
A Terrifying Encounter on the Trail
The incident occurred on the Enchanted Forest Trail in Apex Park, a popular wilderness area near the Rocky Mountains. A woman hiking alone unexpectedly encountered a black bear that became aggressive.
According to wildlife officials, the bear ripped off the hiker’s backpack and scratched her leg, leaving her with minor injuries.
The Bear Wouldn’t Leave
What made the encounter particularly alarming was the bear’s persistence. After the initial attack, the woman attempted to scare the animal away by shouting and throwing sticks and rocks.
Despite her efforts, the bear continued following her down the trail for more than 30 minutes, behavior that experts say is highly unusual for black bears.
Help Arrives Just in Time
The frightening situation finally ended when two other hikers came to the woman’s aid. Their presence appeared to discourage the bear, which eventually left the area.
However, the encounter wasn’t over. Witnesses reported that the bear later crossed a nearby gully and began following another group of hikers before disappearing.
Why Wildlife Officials Are Concerned
Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials say the bear’s behavior raises several red flags. Black bears typically avoid people and retreat when confronted.
Experts believe the animal may have become habituated to humans after gaining access to trash, human food, or other unnatural food sources. When bears lose their natural fear of people, dangerous encounters become more likely.
A Year of Increased Bear Activity
The attack comes during a year of unusually high bear activity across Colorado. Wildlife officials have already received significantly more bear-related reports compared to the same period last year.
A combination of drought conditions and a historically low snowpack has reduced the availability of natural food sources such as berries and other vegetation, pushing more bears toward developed areas in search of food.
Authorities Continue the Search
Following the attack, officials temporarily closed the entire 700-acre park while they searched for the bear.
Wildlife officers hope to locate and evaluate the animal to determine whether health issues, food conditioning, or other factors contributed to its behavior. Depending on the findings, officials may consider relocation or other management actions.
How to Stay Safe in Bear Country
Wildlife experts recommend remaining alert while hiking in bear habitat. Hikers should travel in groups whenever possible, make noise on trails, keep dogs leashed, and carry bear spray.
If a black bear approaches, experts advise standing your ground, making yourself appear larger, and speaking loudly. Running can trigger a chase response and should be avoided.
