Wildlife Safety Guide: Bear Awareness & More

Give Wildlife Plenty of Space:

Seeing animals in their element is one of the best parts of being out here. The safest, most respectful way to enjoy the moment? Keep your distance. Snap a photo from afar and let them stay wild.

Don't Feed or Disturb Animals:

It might seem harmless or helpful, but feeding wildlife can change their behavior in ways that aren’t good for them or you. Let them forage, roam, and live without interruption.

Speak Up if Needed:

If you see someone getting too close or doing something risky, kindly let them know, or report it to a ranger. Sometimes people just don’t know better. It takes everybody to keep us safe.

Wildllife distance Courtesy of Yellowstone National Park <https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/safety.htm>

Be Bear Aware

Big Sky is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, where both black and grizzly bears roam. Spotting one can be unforgettable, but staying safe is essential. Know what to expect, how to avoid surprise encounters, and what to do if you see a bear.

Bear Awareness 101:

Most bear and human encounters happen when bears feel surprised or threatened, especially when they are protecting cubs or food. For everyone’s safety, stay alert, make noise on the trail, and carry bear spray. A little awareness helps keep the wild safe for all.

Watch for signs of bears. Tracks, claw marks, scat, or carcasses are signs to change course. Be alert, especially in brushy or remote areas.

Hike with others when you can. Bears usually steer clear of groups, so there’s safety in numbers.

Carry bear spray at all times and keep it accessible. You can rent bear spray at the Big Sky Visitors Center or purchase it at one of the local gear shops. Practice how to use it and keep it somewhere you can grab it quickly if needed.

Make noise, naturally. Talk, sing, or clap now and then, especially near bends, creeks, brushy areas, or tight trails. The goal is not to surprise anyone.

Store food responsibly. At camp or in town, use bear-proof containers. Don’t leave snacks, trash, or anything scented unattended or in a car, not even for a minute. Bears are sneaky and smarter than you think.

Never feed bears -- on purpose or by accident. This is illegal. Once bears associate people with food, the story usually ends badly. Help keep them wild, safe, curious, and alive.

Give extra space during high-activity seasons. Bears are more active during spring and fall and at dusk and dawn. Stay on designated trails and avoid areas with known bear activity, especially during sensitive times like mating season, fall hyperphagia (pre-hibernation feeding), or when Moms (sows) are with cubs.

Wildlife encounters can be unforgettable in the best way or the worst way. The key is to observe with respect, keep your distance, and remember that we’re the visitors here.