If you surprise a bear on a trail:
• Stand still, stay calm and let the bear identify you and leave. Talk in a normal tone of voice. Be sure the bear has an escape route.
• Never run or climb a tree.
• If you see cubs, their mother is usually close by. Leave the area immediately.
If the bear doesn’t leave:
• A bear standing up is just trying to identify what you are by getting a better look and smell.
• Wave your arms slowly overhead and talk calmly. If the bear huffs, pops it jaws or stomps a paw, it wants you to give it space.
• Step off the trail to the downhill side, keep looking at the bear and slowly back away until the bear is out of sight.
If the bear approaches:
• A bear knowingly approaching a person could be a food-conditioned bear looking for a handout or, very rarely, an aggressive bear. Stand your ground. Yell or throw small rocks in the direction of the bear.
• Get out your bear spray and use it when the bear is about 40 feet away.
• If you’re attacked, don’t play dead. Fight back with anything available. People have successfully defended themselves with pen knives, trekking poles and even bare hands.
Source: Colorado Division of Wildlife
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