Runner Hospitalized After Fending Off Brown Bear Attack in Alaska

A runner in Anchorage, Alaska, was hospitalized on July 18 after using bear spray to defend herself from a brown bear on the Wolverine Bowl trail in Prospect Heights. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game confirmed the incident and stated that biologists collected samples at the scene, though no bears were sighted.

Warning signs have been posted at the Prospect Heights trailhead, and the department advises hikers to avoid closed trails. Officials noted that dense summer foliage can reduce visibility and increase the likelihood of surprise encounters. They recommend choosing hiking routes with good visibility and steering clear of areas near known wildlife attractants, such as salmon-bearing streams.

In bear country, authorities advise carrying deterrents like bear spray or a firearm, hiking in groups, making noise to avoid startling bears, remaining alert for bear signs, refraining from approaching bears, and keeping pets on leashes.

If a bear is encountered, especially one with cubs or near a food source, it may exhibit defensive behaviors such as huffing, stomping, teeth popping, salivating, or laying its ears back before charging. Officials recommend staying calm, standing ground, preparing deterrents, staying with a group, and speaking in a low, calm voice. Running is discouraged.

If a bear remains stationary, slowly move away while maintaining eye contact. If the bear approaches or charges, stand your ground to show you are not a threat. Calm behavior, slow movements, and a low voice can help de-escalate the situation. If the bear continues to advance, deploy deterrents when it comes within range.

This incident follows another bear mauling in Anchorage less than a month prior. On that occasion, a woman was walking with a friend and three dogs on an unofficial trail near the Bear Valley neighborhood adjacent to Chugach State Park when a bear emerged from dense vegetation. The bear made brief contact with one hiker before leaving the scene. The woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was expected to recover.