Two hikers were injured after a grizzly bear attack in British Columbia, Canada, when they unexpectedly came across a mother bear and her two cubs along Farm Cabin Trail near Pass Lake on Sunday, according to the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (COS).
Officials said both hikers were rescued and taken to the University Hospital of Northern BC, where they were treated for injuries and are now in stable condition.
“They were transported and treated at University Hospital of Northern BC,” COS confirmed in a statement. “Both hikers are in stable conditions and recovering in hospital.”
Investigation Determines the Attack Was Defensive
Following an investigation, the COS Predator Attack Team determined the bear’s behavior was defensive, not predatory. Due to the circumstances and location, authorities confirmed that no action will be taken against the bears.
“The attack was defensive in nature,” officials said, noting that the mother was likely protecting her cubs when the hikers came too close.
The Farm Cabin Trail remains closed following the incident. Warning signs have been placed at access points, and authorities are urging visitors to respect the closure until further notice.
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Bear Safety Reminders for Hikers
In the wake of the incident, COS officials used the opportunity to remind hikers about bear awareness and safety precautions when traveling through wilderness areas:
- Stay alert and make noise by talking, singing, or clapping regularly to avoid surprising a bear.
- Travel in groups whenever possible, as bears are less likely to approach multiple people.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it effectively.
- If you encounter a bear, remain calm, do not run, and speak softly while slowly backing away.
Officials stressed that hikers should be especially vigilant in dense brush, near streams, or when visibility is low — all common conditions for surprise encounters.
“We’re wishing them a full and speedy recovery,” COS said of the two hikers recovering from the attack.
