Authorities in British Columbia, Canada, say they have now found the bodies of all three hikers who fell from the Meachen Creek Falls in the East Kootenays.

After a week of intensive searching, rescuers from Kimberley RCMP uncovered the third body, of a 35-year-old man, who had already been presumed dead.

Authorities were originally alerted to the incident on September 1, when they received an SOS signal from a GPS device. A swift search and rescue mission promptly followed, and rescuers soon discovered the body of a 68-year-old woman halfway down the falls.

Days later, with the help of drones, police dogs, and two Big Horn helicopters, they found the body of a 35-year-old female hiker and then confirmed that all three had likely perished.

Local police confirmed the final discovery and thanked rescuers for their efforts in a statement.

It reads: “Their efforts and skill have been appreciated by visiting members of the deceased family."

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.”

Hiking around waterfalls can be treacherous. Check out our expert guide for some thorough safety tips.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

A damage report has revealed the devastating impact of a violent wildfire, which decimated large sections of the Grand Canyon National Park over the past couple of months.

The Dragon Bravo wildfire began on July 4 after a lightning strike, and spread rapidly thanks to high winds and scorching temperatures inside the canyon. As of today, it has burned over 140,000 acres of Arizona wilderness and is 80% contained, with hundreds of firefighters still battling the blaze.

The latest assessment from the Department of the Interior’s Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team states that nearly half of the structures in the park's North Rim section have been severely damaged or destroyed by the blaze.

A total of 106 affected structures include the historic Grand Canyon lodge, the visitor centre, and a vital wastewater treatment plant. Roughly 1,000ft (305m) of the area's 3,300ft (1,006m) water pipeline also sustained serious damage.

Ed Keable, superintendent of Grand Canyon National Park, described the assessment as the "first step towards recovery on the North Rim of Grand Canyon."

"By evaluating risks and identifying treatments now, we are laying the foundation for long-term landscape resilience. This careful, science-based work is essential to ensuring that areas can reopen safely.”

The North Rim, which is usually popular with hikers, will remain closed for the rest of the season, along with multiple inner canyon corridors and campgrounds. Trails affected include the North Kaibab Trail, South Kaibab Trail, Phantom Ranch, and Bright Angel Trail (below Havasupai Gardens).

A social media post from the National Park Service expands: "With assessments complete, the park and interagency partners are now shifting to stabilization, mitigation, and long-term recovery efforts. Protecting human health and safety remains the top priority."

• The best hiking shirts: choose one of these great-fitting active tops with bags of technical clout
• The best base layers: the foundation of your hiking garb

One hiker has died, and two others remain missing after they fell from the Meachen Creek Falls in Canada's East Kootenays over the weekend.

Authorities from the nearby Kimberley Search and Rescue were notified of the incident by an SOS signal from a GPS device, and quickly began a search operation.

The organization dispatched a drone, police dogs, and two Big Horn helicopters to find the hikers. Only one has been confirmed dead thus far.

Waterfall safety

A scenic waterfall is almost guaranteed to be the highlight of any hike, but falls can also be dangerous and cause multiple deaths every year.

Check out some of our top safety tips if you're planning a hiking trip to or via a waterfall.

• Wear the right shoes - Wet surfaces near waterfalls can become slippery and dangerous, especially if you're wearing the wrong footwear. Wear a proper pair of hiking shoes or boots to get the most grip possible. Wear water shoes to help avoid nasty slips if you're planning to swim.
• Check the weather - Poor weather conditions can increase danger. Check the forecast before your hike and look out for heavy rain or ice. Shaded areas can be particularly precarious as they maintain ice for longer.
• Research the falls - Jumping into a waterfall that you don't know much about can be very dangerous. Research the falls you're visiting to understand their depth, what lies beneath the surface, and whether you're ok to swim. Avoid swimming above waterfalls where you could get swept over the edge.
• Stick to established routes - Off-trail and restricted areas are off-limits for good reason. Stick to established trails and use viewing platforms to get a good look at the falls.
• Take a friend - Hiking is always safer with a friend or in a group, who can provide assistance in an emergency and call for specialist help if needed.

For more waterfall safety advice, check out our expert guide.

• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

An 85-year-old hiker has died after being trampled by cows in the Austrian Alps.

The unnamed man and his wife were charged at by an aggressive herd on Sunday, August 31, while they walked their dog in the Ramsau am Dachstein area of Austria's Styria province.

Local police spokesman Markus Lamb told AFP: "A retired couple from Vienna and their dog were walking just below the so-called Austria hut when a herd of nine cows, including three calves, charged and severely injured them."

Nearby hikers and refuge workers witnessed the attack, alerted emergency services, and administered first aid to the couple, who were taken to a hospital in Salzburg. The man died of his injuries before he could undergo surgery.

Cow safety

Depending on where you're trekking, cows might not be high on your list of worries, but they might be a little more dangerous than you expect.

Believe it or not, cows are the deadliest animals in the UK, killing upwards of 70 people in the past 15 years. They're equally dangerous across the Atlantic, accounting for roughly 22 deaths each year in the US.

Cows are generally peaceful animals, but there are a few things to keep in mind when passing by them, so prepare in advance with some of our top safety tips

• Reroute when necessary - Look around before you enter a cow field and take a different route if you see calves or a bull. Like most animals, cows are extremely protective of their young, and bulls, identified by their humped shoulders and muscular necks, are notoriously ill-tempered. Cows are also known to take a keen interest in pregnant women, so they're best avoided altogether if you're expecting.
• Alert the cows to your presence - Cows can become aggressive if surprised, so make plenty of noise when they're in your way.
• Walk quickly and avoid eye contact - Avoid antagonizing cows by passing them at speed and allowing them plenty of room.
• Keep dogs on a short lead - Excitable furry friends can wind up cattle, so keep yours on a short lead and keep it from barking if possible.
• Don't panic - Keep calm if cows move towards you. Continue walking at a steady pace towards your exit and give them a gentle shove if they come within touching distance.
• Don't run - If cows become aggressive, running will only spur them on. Instead, make yourself as big as possible, wave your arms, and yell the expletive of your choice to avoid getting trampled.

For a detailed safety breakdown, check out our expert guide to cattle safety.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best hiking hats: cozy beanies for mountains and sun hats for warmer days

Open water swimmers in Germany can head into wild waters with a little more confidence, following the introduction of 'Dolphin' lifeguarding drones at multiple popular spots.

These small, remote-controlled devices are designed to help wild swimmers in emergencies, providing something for them to hold on to and safely tugging them back to shore.

They're a little over a yard long and can reach speeds of up to 16 miles per hour (25kmph) on their way to a person, and 3.1mph (5kmph) with two adults holding on. On board, there's a video camera that sends feedback to the drone operator. The devices can be controlled from up to roughly half a mile away (800m).

These potentially life-saving machines have popped up at 14 open water swimming spots around Germany as part of a testing programme run by the German Life-Saving Association (DLRG).

The DLRG began the programme after a deadly 2024 for German swimmers. There were 411 drowning deaths in the nation last year, the highest number since the pandemic and a significant jump compared to the 380 in 2023.

The devices, known officially as Dolphin 3s, are made by Hong Kong company, OceanAlpha, and are already in consistent use by Chinese lifeguarding organizations.

The OceanAlpha website reads: "Dolphin 3 can propel itself to rescue a casualty faster than any skilled swimmer, while the rescuer can operate it with a remote controller to stay safe and dry."

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best water shoes: gear up for wild aqua adventures

A hiker has been hospitalized after an alligator attacked and bit her on a Florida hiking trail, authorities say.

The woman, who has not been identified, was hiking on the Bird Rookery Swamp Trail in Collier County, between Naples and Fort Myers, when the incident took place on Sunday, August 17.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) says the alligator came out of the water and bit the woman on her arm and leg. Details of her condition have not been released.

ABC Gulf Coast reports that a contracted nuisance alligator trapper was called in to relocate the alligator.

The Bird Rookery Swamp Trail is a maple-cypress swamp on the outskirts of Naples that is home to alligators, otters, Florida panthers, bobcats, and white-tailed deer with 12 miles of hiking trails.

Alligator safety

Alligator attacks in Florida are rare, but they do happen, and as recently as May of this year, a fatal incident occurred when a 61-year-old woman was attacked while canoeing near Orlando.

The majority of attacks are on people engaged in water sports, but as this story reveals, hiking in Florida does require some vigilance. As is typically the case with wildlife, the key to avoiding an interaction with an alligator lies in preventing it in the first place, which you can typically do by following these straightforward, common sense rules:

• Hike during daylight hours.
• Enjoy them from afar – give alligators a wide berth.
• Don’t feed alligators – it is illegal, bad for them and can cause them to lose their fear of humans.
• Keep your dog away from the shores – your beloved pet is just another snack to a gator.
• Yell and make noise if an alligator seems interested in you.
• Only swim in designated areas, during daylight hours.

You can learn more in our article on alligator safety.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best hiking shorts: cool, comfy legs mean more miles on the trails

Hundreds of visitors may have been exposed to rabies after a suspected bat colony was found living in the attic space of a lodge in Grand Teton National Park.

According to a news bulletin provided by the Wyoming park's officials dated August 8, the colony was discovered at the historic Jackson Lake Lodge.

"Wyoming Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are leading the effort to coordinate with the affected guests' local public health officials, who will conduct rabies risk assessments," states the report.

The colony was located above guest rooms 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, 528, and 530, and while officials state that there is no immediate threat to the public, Grand Teton Lodge Company says it has received eight reports of overnight guests who may have been exposed to bats in the lodge since June 2.

The affected rooms have been closed, and efforts are now underway to contact all guests who stayed in those rooms between May 5 and July 27.

If you stayed at Jackson Lake Lodge this summer and think you might have been exposed to a bat, which officials explain means any physical contact, including a bite or scratch, contact Grand Teton Lodge Company at RoomsGTLC@vailresorts.com or (307) 543-3044.

Officials explain that a bat bite might not bleed or be visible or painful. If you were staying in an affected room, you will be put in touch with a public health official.

"Individuals who meet the risk criteria for a rabies exposure will be connected with the appropriate provider in their home state for preventive treatment," state officials advise.

Bats are a healthy part of the ecosystem at Grand Teton National Park and little brown bats are the most common there. In September 2022, a rabid bat was found near Jenny Lake boat dock in the park.

What to do if you come into contact with a bat

Whether a bat flies into your home through an open window or you accidentally grab onto one when you’re crack climbing, you should assume that you’ve been exposed to rabies and act straight away. Bat bites are small and you won’t always know you’ve been bitten, according to the CDC, which offers the following advice:

• The best protection is to stay away from bats – if you see a bat outdoors, just enjoy it from a distance,
• Don’t touch bats – most bites occur when people try to pick bats up.
• If you realize you’ve been sharing a room with a bat, speak to your doctor immediately about your exposure risk and whether or not you need to be vaccinated.
• If you suspect you may have been bitten or scratched by a bat, immediately wash the area with soap and water, then seek medical attention.

Learn more in our article on protecting yourself against bats in the wild.

• Best binoculars and monoculars: admire wildlife from a safe distance
• Best hiking boots: hit the trail

A man has died after being bitten by a rattlesnake while hiking in a Tennessee state park.

Authorities say the hiker was about a half mile along a trail in Savage Gulf State Park in Grundy County on Friday, August 8, when he picked the rattlesnake up. The snake bit him in the hand.

Rescue crews were called to the scene at around 12:30pm where they administered CPR to the man, who has not been identified. He was transported to the hospital, where he later died.

Savage Gulf State Park is approximately 65 miles northwest of Chattanooga and offers more than 60 miles of wilderness hiking trails.

Rattlesnake safety

Rattlesnake bites are rare, but it's important to be alert if you're hiking in areas where rattlesnakes are found. Rattlesnake activity rises with the temperatures, and they are most active between April and October.

The US Forest Service advises you to protect yourself from such accidental encounters by keeping your distance from rattlesnakes and wearing long hiking pants if you're off the beaten path.

It's safest to stick to well-used trails and avoid wading through tall grass or bushes where snakes may be hiding.

Make sure you are aware of where you're walking, and don't put your feet or hands anywhere you can't see. Learn more in our article on what to do if you see a snake on the trail.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices

Hikers and climbers in the Italian Dolomites have been told to stay off Cima Falkner after a series of rockfalls on its western and eastern sides. Popular trails on and surrounding the mountain have been closed as investigators work to assess their safety.

“All hikers in the area have been evacuated. We urge everyone to pay maximum attention and strictly follow the ordinances to ensure their own safety," warned officials from the local Trentino-Alto Adige council.

The mountain is currently going through permafrost degradation, meaning that ground that usually stays frozen all year round is thawing, allowing rocks to become loose and tumble down the mountain. This phenomenon has caused the summit to open "like a flower," according to the council.

“The fractures, previously filled with ice, are now partially empty, indicating a change in the morphology of Cima Falkner,” it explained.

Although it's difficult to link single events to climate change, scientists have previously warned that increasingly extreme heat can melt the vital ice that holds otherwise unstable mountain rocks in place.

The Scientific Committee of the Italian Alpine Club told La Repubblica: "Landslides are on the rise, and the main cause is the climate crisis. There’s no doubt about it.

"Mountains, by definition, are destined to collapse, they won’t remain as we know them forever. What’s different now is that we’re seeing a clear acceleration of these processes, driven by heat and extreme weather events intensified by the climate crisis," it continued.

The local council says that Cima Falkner has already shed over 12,360,13 cubic ft (35,000m³) of rock and could lose upwards of 24,72027 cubic ft (70,000ft³) before the rockfalls stop.

Rockfall safety

Despite their dangers, rockfalls are relatively uncommon on hiking trails. Even so, it's important to be prepared, so check out some of our top tips to keep yourself safe from falling rocks in the mountains.

• Stick to proper paths - Established trails are more likely to be well-maintained, and offer better stability than untamed wilderness sections.
• Check the weather - Heavy rain and strong winds increase the likelihood of rockfalls, especially in steep or wild sections, so make sure to check the weather ahead of time and prepare accordingly.
• Heed warnings - Local mountain authorities will publish rockfall warnings if incidents are likely or have been reported. You should check ahead of time and take any warnings seriously before embarking on a trek.
• Don't go alone - Hiking with a friend or in a group is a great way to stay safe in the mountains, as they can call for help in an emergency situations, including rockfalls.

For more top tips, check out our expert rockslides safety guide.

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

Rescuers at Sequoia National Park have found a body in the search for a missing Californian woman who was swept away from the shore while trying to help her sister.

Jomarie Calasanz, 26, was pulled into fast-moving waters in the Kaweah River and carried away on May 25. After two months of searching, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park shared a statement on Wednesday, July 30, saying that rescuers had located a body and confirmed it to be hers.

The search, which took place throughout June and July, included the use of drones, ground teams, dive teams, and dogs, but was brought to a halt by dangerous weather conditions in July.

Calasanz's body was finally discovered on July 24, less than a mile from where she had disappeared.

"Water flow calculations were continually monitored, and it was determined July 24 would be the first and best opportunity to safely locate Jomarie," reads the statement.

"The National Park Service, Sheriff Boudreaux, and the men and women of the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office offer our deepest condolences to Jomarie's family."

The La Puente resident had been swimming with her sister, Joanne, who was pulled away from the shore by a strong current. Calasanz swam out to save her sister before both women were dragged further. Joanne told the Los Angeles Times that she was able to find her footing, but Jomarie was swept into the river.

After the discovery, Francis Calasanz thanked the rescue crews, and everyone involved in the search in a Facebook post on behalf of the Calasanz family.

It reads: "Praise God for an amazing outcome to such a terrible tragedy. We thank Him and His Goodness and though our hearts remain heavy with sorrow, we are deeply grateful to share that Jomarie has been found, and after 65 days, we can now bring her home to rest."

Open water safety

Following the announcement, officials at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park took the opportunity to warn visitors about the water's dangers.

"We would like to remind the public that rivers remain dangerous even with lower flow rates later in the season," they said in a statement.

"Please stay away from swift water, be sure to wear a life jacket, and keep children close along the river’s edge."

Swimming in open water can be a safe and enjoyable activity if done right, but it's important to remember the essentials.

• Be wary of currents - Strong currents can be extremely dangerous. Make sure you know how to spot one, and if you're caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore until it peters out
• Check the water quality - Rivers, ponds, and open water environments can fall victim to dangerous water pollution. Check pollution levels before you take a dip with the How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.
• Don't jump in - You never know what lies beneath the surface, so wade, don't jump into open water. A belly flop could endanger you and nearby wildlife.
• Swim with others - Mitigate the risks of open water swimming by taking a friend or going with a group that can offer assistance in the case of an emergency.
• Wear the right gear - Good swimming kit is essential in open water environments. Rivers, lakes, seas, and ponds are almost always colder than open-air and indoor pools, so don't be afraid to wear a wetsuit. If you start to feel chilly, leave the water and wrap yourself in something insulating like a reliable changing robe.

For more open water safety guidance, check out our expert guide.

• The best changing robes: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

A hiker was attacked by a grizzly bear in the second mauling in the Anchorage area in just four days.

The man was walking with his dog on an unmaintained trail to Barbara Falls, along the South Fork of Eagle River at around 9am on Saturday, July 26, when he was mauled by a brown bear. The Anchorage Daily News reports that he had time to deploy bear spray and sustained non-life-threatening injuries to his arm. He was able to hike out of the area and call for help.

Timothy Gurnett, a ranger with Chugach State Park, tells Alaska Public Media that the man likely startled the bear sow, which was feeding on salmon with at least one cub. Because this was a defensive attack, officials from Alaska Department of Fish and Game say there are no plans to euthanize the bear.

Four days earlier on July 22, a 67-year-old hiker was attacked by a grizzly bear in the Chugach Mountains on the outskirts of Anchorage. She suffered head and neck injuries after being dragged off the Dome Trail, but was able to call for help after the bear ran off.

Bear safety

Officials say bear attacks in Anchorage are relatively rare, but any time you're running, hiking or camping in bear country, you should always carry bear spray and know how to use it.

It's also important to know exactly what to do if you meet a bear to stay safe. If you are charged or approached by a grizzly bear, it’s best to leave your backpack on and play dead.

As scary as that might sound, it’s a defensive maneuver to help keep you as safe as possible. Lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck. Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain as motionless as possible until the bear leaves the area.

Fighting back usually increases the intensity of such attacks. However, if the attack persists, fight back vigorously with whatever you have at hand – a branch, rocks, one of your boots – to hit the bear in the face. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a bear.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trail

A woman was mauled by a grizzly bear while hiking on a popular trail near Anchorage, officials say.

The hiker, who has not been identified, was on the Basher Trail in the Chugach Mountains in Anchorage at around 2:30pm on July 22 when the bear attacked, according to The Anchorage Fire Department.

The bear reportedly ran off after the attack, which left the woman unable to walk as she called 911 for assistance.

"The hiker reported they could not get out on their own due to injuries sustained in the mauling," states the AFD in its report.

Multiple agencies, including Anchorage PD, Alaska Department of Fish and Game and Alaska State Troopers responded and used drone technology to locate the woman, which took around one hour. She was then airlifted from the scene to the hospital. Anchorage Police spokesperson Christopher Barraza tells Anchorage News Daily that the woman's injuries are "non-life threatening."

Now, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game has closed the area while it conducts searches for the bear, and officials are advising everyone in the vicinity to brush up on their bear safety and carry bear spray, despite the rarity of bear attacks in the Chugach mountains.

Bear safety

If you're running, hiking or camping in grizzly country, always carry bear spray and know how to use it.

It's also important to know exactly what to do if you meet a bear to stay safe. If you are charged or approached by a grizzly bear, it’s best to leave your backpack on and play dead.

As scary as that might sound, it’s a defensive maneuver to help keep you as safe as possible. Lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck. Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain as motionless as possible until the bear leaves the area.

Fighting back usually increases the intensity of such attacks. However, if the attack persists, fight back vigorously with whatever you have at hand – a branch, rocks, one of your boots – to hit the bear in the face. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a bear.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trail

Search and rescue teams in Spain are scouring the Pyrenees mountains in the hopes of finding a missing American hiker.

Cole Henderson, 27, was last heard from at around 2pm local time on July 9, when he messaged friends to say he was beginning a hike and would be switching his phone to airplane mode. Although he didn't mention a route, Cole sent the message from the village of Torla, near the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in the Huesca region of northeastern Spain.

Authorities were alerted to his absence on July 14, when Henderson failed to check in for his flight back to the Netherlands, where he lives and works. Spanish police began a search that day, deploying rescuers and helicopters to the park and other areas in the Pyrenees.

Cole remains missing, but his car was discovered at a parking lot in Torla, with a receipt for camping fuel.

The Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park covers 60 square miles (156km²⁾ of rugged Spanish wilderness and is home to the towering Mount Perdido. The 11,007ft (3,355m) peak is the third-highest mountain in the Pyrenees, and takes around a day of hard hiking to summit.

Trekking in the region can be precarious all year round, especially in the mid-summer season when temperatures regularly exceed 83°F (28.5°C).

Hot weather hiking

When done properly, hot-weather hiking can be an enjoyable, if challenging experience. If you're eying up a toasty trek, check out some of our summer hiking safety tips.

• Don the right clothing - Make sure you're equipped for the hot summer sun with the right gear. This includes a dependable waterproof jacket, breathable layers, and protection from the sun.
• Bring an SOS device - It's good to prepare for the worst. With a trusty GPS device like the Garmin InReach, you can call for help from anywhere in the wilderness.
• Bring lots of snacks and water - Hiking under the sun can be a sweaty business, so bring more water than you think you need and stock up on salty snacks to replace lost electrolytes. See our expert guide to how much water you'll need.

• Wear proper footwear - Ensure that you're ready for treacherous underfoot conditions with a grippy pair of hiking boots or shoes. The best models will have large, dynamic lugs that dig into tricky terrain to keep you from falling.
• Plan your route ahead of time - Having a detailed route plan will stop you from taking unnecessary turns and hiking for longer than you'd first thought. Make sure to share your planned journey with friends and family so they know where you are and can help in an emergency situation.

For more summer hiking safety advice, check out our top six tips.

• The best hiking shorts: cool, comfy legs mean more miles on the trails
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

A hiker in Alaska has died after falling to his death from a popular hiking trail. William Milks, 64, was hiking in a group along the challenging Salmon Creek route in Juneau when witnesses say he tripped and fell over 100ft (30m).

Emergency responders rappelled down to Milks' position but were unable to save him. Local fire chief Rich Etheridge told the Juneau Empire: "They started patient care, and then he went into cardiac arrest while we were on the scene."

Juneau Mountain Rescue and Temsco Helicopters worked together to retrieve Milks' body, which is now with Alaska's medical examiner's office.

The incident occurred at around 3.30pm on Saturday, June 21.

The Salmon Creek trail is a challenging out-and-back route in the Alaskan wilderness. It gains 1,420ft (433m) of elevation in 6.4 miles (10.3km) as hikers and trail runners take on varied underfoot terrain and exposed, elevated sections.

The first section of the trail leads hikers over abandoned railroads, formerly used by trams.

Exposed hiking safety

Hiking along exposed cliffside routes with large drops can be dangerous without the right precautions. If you're eying up an exposed trek, check out a few of our expert tips:

• Research your route - Exposed and cliffside routes often feature tricky scrambling or steep sections. Make sure you know what you're up against and have the right equipment and fitness levels to hike safely before you reach the trailhead.
• Check the weather - Harsh weather conditions can be particularly brutal in exposed areas, as there's little to protect you from the elements. Heavy rain and high winds can worsen underfoot conditions, especially on slick rocky surfaces. If you're adamant about heading out in the rain, make sure to bring a reliable waterproof jacket.
• Wear the right footwear - The right footwear can be the difference between life and death on unpredictable terrain. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes will have ample grip and suitable lugs to help you dig into uneven surfaces and minimize slipping.

For more expert advice, check out our exposed hiking routes safety guide.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

The bodies of two women have been pulled from the water in Wales’ Eryri National Park, formerly Snowdonia.

They were discovered in the waters of the Nant Gwynant valley, near the challenging Watkin Path up Yr Wyddfa, otherwise known as Mount Snowdon.

North Wales Police and workers from the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team arrived at the scene on Wednesday night (June 11), following reports of a woman in the water. A second woman was also discovered, and both were pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, Detective Chief Inspector Andy Gibson has confirmed that an investigation is underway and asked for information from anyone "who may have been walking in or around the Watkin Path area between 6pm and 9pm" on Wednesday.

Social media spots

The pools and waterfalls near the Watkin Path have become a popular destination in recent years, due in part to the influence of social media.

Videos on platforms like Instagram and TikTok show trekkers stripping off for a dip in the clear mountain pools.

But recent heavy rainfall across North Wales has turned the formerly gentle waters violent and created a dangerous undercurrent. The water is also extremely chilly and can cause cold-water shock. It's not yet clear how the two women died.

Local councilor June Jones told the BBC: "Social media encourages people to go to these wonderful places and, of course, the water can be extremely cold."

Open water swimming safety

With the right equipment and proper preparation, open water swimming can be a safe, enjoyable way to cool off and exercise.

If you're eager to take a dip in mountain waters, like the ones in Eryri, check out some of our expert safety advice.

• Don't swim solo - You can mitigate the risks of open water swimming by taking an experienced friend or going with a group, who can help out in an emergency situation.
• Look out for pollution - Rivers, lakes, and even fresh water pools can be susceptible to pollution. You can check the water quailty using the the How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.

• Watch out for dangerous currents - Currents and undercurrents can be life-threatening in open water. Learn how to spot one, and if you're caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore until it peters out.
• Don't jump in - Open water is often home to debris and plenty of wildlife, so keep yourself safe by wading in slowly. Don't jump in.
• Wear the right kit - Reliable gear is essential for swimming in open water, which is almost always colder than open-air and indoor pools. If you're feeling chilly, get out and wrap yourself in something insulating like a warm robe.

For more open water swimming safety guidance, check out our full guide.

• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea
• The best wild swimming gear: what to wear and what to take

A popular hiking influencer has been found dead a few hundred yards away from a well-worn Arizona trail.

The body of 31-year-old Hannah Moody was discovered at the 30,000-acre McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 25 hours after she went missing during a warm-weather hike.

Hannah began hiking in the area at around 11.30am on May 21, sharing a video on her Instagram stories captioned "Conquering this trail as a last hurrah before summer hits".

Friends raised the alarm that evening when they failed to hear from her as expected.

Authorities headed to the reserve where they launched an unsuccessful aerial search using helicopters and drones. They returned the next morning and discovered her body around midday, roughly 1,800ft (549m) from a popular, but unspecified, trail.

Scottsdale Police have confirmed that they will open an investigation into Moody's death but suggested that they don't suspect any foul play or trauma.

Without official confirmation, friends told local news channel KPNX that they believe she died from heat exhaustion. Temperatures in the area reached 106°F (41.1°C) on the day of Moody's disappearance.

Moody had amassed around 45,000 followers on Instagram, where she shared hiking content and vlogged her treks. Her videos encouraged others to get outdoors and often included hot-weather hiking safety tips.

Warm weather hiking

Hiking in extreme temperatures can be dangerous, especially in desert areas that lack shade and protection from the heat.

Although the hottest months are between June and August, shoulder seasons like May and September can also be deadly, as hikers often underestimate temperatures. Earlier this month, one trail runner died, and four others needed rescuing following a heat-related incident in Arizona.

If you're considering a hot weather hike, make sure to check the weather conditions ahead of time, dress accordingly, and stock plenty of water and salty snacks.

For more hot-weather hiking advice, check out our expert summer hiking safety guide.

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Visitors to Banff National Park are being warned to take care as officials issue a bear warning for the Lake Minnewanka area. The warning comes following a report that a female black bear with cubs tore open a tent in the Lake Minnewanka Trail campsite.

The tent was empty at the time while the owner was nearby in the designated cooking area, reported Rocky Mountain Outlook.

“The individual was behaving appropriately and the bears did not interact with them,” a communications officer for Banff National Park said. “No negative human-bear interaction was reported and the bears did not obtain any unnatural food rewards.”

Meanwhile, viral footage has been released by a hiker that shows a large grizzly bear following him along a trail in the park.

Caught on camera by Isaac Shah, TikTok user @izzybob209, the bear begins to follow him at a reasonably close distance. Shah holds up his bear spray and continues to walk slowly away as he says:

"Still following me, just got to remain calm and don't run, pepper spray at the ready."

Shah has published a follow-up video from the safety of his car revealing that soon after the video ended the bear left the trail to get water from a nearby stream and he was left safe and well.

He acknowledges criticisms that he should have left the trail, but admits he was scared.

CBC News reported that Parks Canada said Isaac's response was textbook perfect – he stayed calm, backed away slowly and didn't run.

Bear safety

Banff National Park has published bear safety information on its social media channels. The main message is to try and avoid encounters in the first place. You can do this by:

• Making noise and traveling in groups
• Keeping your pets on a leash and under physical control
• Staying on official paths and trails
• Respecting closures and area restrictions
• If you encounter a dead animal, leaving the area immediately and reporting it to park staff

We have useful information on what to do if you meet a bear in our expert safety guide, and there's key info on storing, carrying and using bear spray in this hiking safety article.

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Authorities at Grand Canyon National Park have warned hikers that rescue teams may not be able to come to their aid due to staff shortages.

They are urging hikers to take responsibility for their own safety following the death of a 74-year-old man in extreme heat.

Dennis Smith of Olympia, Washington, was discovered unresponsive while attempting to hike from the canyon's north rim to its south rim.

The daunting 24-mile (38.6km) trek leads hikers 6,000ft (1,829m) down to the canyon floor before gaining a further 4,500ft (1,372m) of unforgiving canyon trails

National Park Service staff shortages

While there is no implication that Smith died due to a slow rescue response, the National Park Service says hikers should bring their own emergency medical equipment and not rely on understaffed search and rescue services.

"Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, and employee safety requirements," reads an NPS statement.

Earlier in the statement, the NPS warned against the dangers of hiking extreme heat.

"The NPS urges all visitors to Grand Canyon National Park, particularly those planning to hike or backpack in the inner canyon, to prepare for extreme heat in the coming days.

“Temperatures in the inner canyon are expected to reach 100°F (38°C) by the end of this week, making it critical for hikers to take proper precautions.”

National Parks across the country have been forced to reckon with drastic job cuts since the inauguration of President Trump.

Thousands of temporary and full-time park employees have lost work, while some permanent employees have been offered a buyout of up to $25,000 to leave their jobs.

Medical professionals, administrators, and search and rescue workers are among those to lose their jobs, leaving the parks short of vital staff right before the peak summer period.

Multiple protests have been organized in response, and park lovers have taken to the streets to voice their frustration at the drastic cuts.

In spite of the shortage, all 63 US parks have been ordered to remain open, a move which campaign groups have strongly criticised.

"This is yet another attempt by the administration to sideline the expertise of dedicated park staff," reads a statement from Kristen Brengel of the National Parks Conservation Association, which advocates for America's national parks and NPS workers.

"It’s micromanagement at its worst, creating more red tape when park staff are already stretched dangerously thin and dealing with peak visitation season."

Hot weather hiking

If you take the right precautions, hiking can still be both fun and safe in the summer months. Keen to hit the trails? Check out some of our essential tips for safe summer hiking.

• Stock up on water. When temperatures are touching the 90s, you should aim to bring more than what you’ll need. 1.6 to 2.1Ga (6 to 8L) are recommended for an average eight-hour hike.
• Replace lost electrolytes. In scorching temperatures, you’ll lose a lot of salt through your sweat, so make sure to stock up on salty snacks like potato chips and peanuts to avoid becoming hyponatremic.
• Dress appropriately. You can protect yourself from the sun by wearing the right clothes. Loose, lightweight nylon and polyester clothes can encourage airflow and increase breathability as you hike. A good pair of sunglasses and a protective sunhat are also crucial.

• Wear sunscreen. Sunscreen is an essential tool for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, which can lead to painful burning, skin cancer, and premature aging.
• Hike within your limits. Scorching days aren't the time to push your boundaries. Hike within your limits and don't be afraid to take a break if you feel tired or light-headed.
• Go with a friend. If you're trekking through remote wilderness areas, it's best not to go alone. A companion can provide essential care and find help in an emergency situation.

For more summer hiking advice, check out our expert guide.

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Authorities in Wales are urging people to stay out of the nation's largest lake after sightings of toxic blue-green algae blooms.

The dangerous bacteria have been spotted near the shoreline of Llyn Tegid, otherwise known as Bala Lake in Wales's Eryri National Park (formerly Snowdonia).

"Please be careful around the lake and avoid contact with the algae," warns a statement from park chiefs.

"If you're planning to visit Llyn Tegid, please familiarise yourself with the safety information on the public notice boards around the lake."

Home to 1.9 square miles (4.8km²) of serene open water, Llyn Tegid is a popular spot for open water swimmers. It hosts plenty of casual swims and several organized races each year, where swimmers compete in the shadow of Arenig Mountain.

What is blue-green algae?

Blue-green algae is a natural phenomenon that often appears in lakes during the summer months. It's caused by a combination of warm temperatures and nutrients, which discolor and increase toxicity in open waters.

But the blooms are "toxic to humans and animals, and skin contact with, or ingestion of the algae can cause mild to severe illness," continued the statement.

Coming into contact with blue-green algae can cause the following:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rashes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Fever

How to check for water pollution

If you're keen to take a dip in open waters this summer, make sure to familiarise yourself with the potential dangers.

Check online for warnings and be vi yourself before getting in the water. Blooms are easily identified by brightly colored scum, which is often found near the shoreline.

Seek immediate medical assistance if you, somebody nearby, or a pet has come into contact with blue-green algae and starts feeling unwell.

You can look for blue-green algae and other pollutants like E. coli online at How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.

For more on lake safety, check out our expert guide to safe open water swimming.

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Authorities in the UK are urging open water swimmers to act with caution after a teenager drowned in a popular lake.

The 16-year-old died after getting into difficulty while swimming in Colwick Country Park lake on Wednesday afternoon (April 30).

The emergency services were called and a police underwater search team discovered his body a few hours later. The boy’s family have been informed and are now being supported by specially-trained officers.

"This is a tragic discovery and our thoughts are with this boy's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time," said Police Chief Inspector David Mather, before urging swimmers to avoid risks in open water.

"As in this tragic case, open water can have hidden dangers that can prove fatal and I would urge anyone who spends any time on or near open water to use this case as a devastating reminder of that."

It's not yet clear how the boy got into difficulty, but this death is not being treated as suspicious.

Group Manager Tom Staples, of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service added: "This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers of open water. We urge everyone to take care around lakes, rivers, and other natural bodies of water. "

While it can be safe and enjoyable, open water swimming carries multiple risks, including cold water shock and illness from bacteria and pollution in the water.

Safety advice

If you're planning on open water swimming, make sure to prepare in advance and check out our essential safety tips.

• Don't go alone - From rip currents to cold conditions, open water swimming carries multiple risks. A friend or group of other open water swimmers can get help and potentially save your life in an emergency situation.
• Prepare for conditions - The best open water swimming gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable swim. Rivers, lakes, and seas are almost always colder than open-air and indoor pools, so get yourself ready for a chilly dip. If you feel too cold, leave the water and wrap yourself in something insulating like a changing robe.
• Don't jump in - Never jump into open water. It can be unclear where the bottom is and what lies beneath the surface, so wade in slowly and carefully.

• Monitor the water quality - Open water can contain dangerous bacteria like E. coli, particularly after heavy rainfall. You can check pollution levels using the How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.
• Keep an eye out for currents - Strong currents can carry you off course, whether you're swimming in a river or the ocean. Ensure you can spot one, and if you're caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore until it peters out.

For more open water swimming safety tips, check out our expert guide.

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Search and rescue officials at Yosemite National Park are urging visitors to take care around its freezing, fast-moving water as the peak summer season approaches.

The park's search and rescue team responds to roughly 15 to 20 water-related incidents every year in its ice-cold rivers and lakes, which present a life-threatening risk to open-water swimmers, and hikers.

"As water levels rise, so do their danger levels," explains a Yosemite Facebook post.

"Many of the park’s search and rescue cases involve visitors accidentally falling in after crossing streams, scrambling on rocks, or hiking near water. Take your time and use caution."

There are two major rivers in Yosemite National Park: the Merced and the Tuolumne. Both flow westward from the Sierra Nevada mountains and contain a significant amount of melted snow, which keeps the water cold all year round.

Yosemite also has more than 2,000 lakes, many of which are also fed by snowmelt and therefore dangerously cold.

"Swimming here is like swimming in an ice bath. Know your limits; even professional swiftwater rescuers need layers of insulation in the water," continues the post.

There are also significant dangers hidden under the surface, where powerful currents and hidden debris like tree branches and rocks can cause serious injury.

"If a sign says, 'No Swimming,' it is usually near a dangerous area where water-related incidents have happened in the past. When you see a sign, keep yourself safe and find a different location to enjoy."

Yosemite's Facebook post also includes a video in which officials simulate a water rescue from the rapid and icy currents.

"By the time I got here and they did the work to pull me out of the water, I was exhausted, and I was tired, I was cold, I was shaky," said park ranger Jason Deger, who acted as the victim of a water accident, and was pulled to safety by search and rescue workers.

If you fall into water with a strong current, Yosemite National Park advises you to "float on your back, direct your legs downstream, and point your feet up on the surface" to maximise your chances of survival.

For more safety tips, check out our expert guide to staying safe in open water.

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Spring blossoms are bringing the trails back to life, the rivers are filling with snowmelt, and in certain parts of the country, the bears are yawning, stretching and rubbing their eyes with their paws. Just as we're starting to think about more backpacking trips, bears are thinking about their next meal, and right on cue, REI has released a new style of bear canister that can be adapted to meet your needs.

At first glance, the REI Co-op Traverse Modular Bear Canister just looks like a larger version of any old canister, but look closer and you'll see that it's smarter. This modular canister comprises two sections that can be used independently for shorter trips, screwed together to make one big canister for longer adventures, and nest one inside the other as your food supple dwindles over the days.

If you don't know, a bear canister is a solution for keeping your food – and yourself –safe in bear country, and it's easier than hanging a bear bag. Typically, they just consist of a plastic tub that's difficult for a bear to pick up and impossible for it to open, such as this one by Bear Vault. The Modular Bear Canister boasts those exact attributes, but it's more versatile and looks like a great option for thru-hikers who have to carry a lot of food.

Certified bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, this canister does require a little finesse to access your best backpacking food. To open it, two buttons need to be pressed. REI says you can operate it with the click of a finger, while audible clicks help you know when the lid is locked shut and your snacks are safe.

It hasn't been on the market too long, but long enough that some campers have had a chance to test it out and give it some feedback. While there are a few campers who say they couldn't get it open, there are others who report they had no problem after reading the instructions, so we suggest you do that or watch the helpful video below if you have questions. As we say in bear country, you just have to be smarter than a bear to operate it.

At its largest capacity, this canister holds 11.25L, which is easily enough for a week on the trail, and REI says it's big enough to use as a stool when you're setting up your camp kitchen for the night.

It shrinks down to nearly half that size at 6.25L as you get closer to your next refueling spot. As for packing it, at its smallest, it squashes down to roughly 9in X 8in, which is smaller than that Bear Vault we mentioned and should be able to sit nicely on top of your sleeping bag inside your backpack. Cleverly, it also comes with a carry bag with reflective trim, so you can stash it away from your tent and if you need it, it will be easy to find in the dark with your headlamp.

The REI Co-op Traverse Modular Bear Canister is available now from REI for $79.95, which is cheaper than any other canister the brand sells.

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Hikers on a popular long-distance trail in the Scottish Highlands are warned to be alert to a fast-growing population of wild boar.

Up to 8,000 of the large feral pigs are now living along the 78-mile Great Glen Way, between Fort William and Inverness. The trail is also popular with runners in Scotland.

While the wild animals will usually prefer to avoid humans, there have been documented incidents of attacks.

The boars, which have been spotted up to 420lb / 190kg in weight and the size of a Shetland pony, will aggressively protect their nests and young.

If taken unawares or cornered they may attack. Hikers with dogs are also being warned of the potential dangers.

A woman on a section of the trail recorded frightening footage of a boar attacking her dog, while it was on a lead.

A farmer on the banks of Loch Ness, Catherine Mclennan, also told a newspaper, The Press and Journal (P&J), she came across wild boar at night. She said: “There were dozens of them on our land.”

She added, with a warning: “There have been people coming across the wild boar and being chased by them. Someone will get killed or badly hurt.”

Posts of the Great Glen Way Walk Facebook page report other issues with boars on the Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit section of the Great Glen Way, including a couple with a dog who were chased.

Stuart Macdonald, who lives near Drumnadrochit, in the Great Glen and runs a pest control business, told Advnture he has also heard about – and seen evidence of – wild boar attacks on both people and dogs, as well as suspected livestock killings, including lambs and ewes.

He said: “Populations of the wild boars in the area are out of control.”

And he believes official figures on the numbers of wild boars are “most likely misleading”. He said: “The Scottish Government agency NatureScot reports there are populations in their low thousands but I would suggest the numbers are much higher than this.

“This is also backed by other anecdotal reports and wildlife camera recordings. It’s difficult to keep track of the animals because they are usually quite secretive and they spend a lot of time in deep vegetation.

“But given how many we used to see a decade of so ago and the numbers spotted now, even a conservative estimate puts numbers at around 8,000.”

More and more sightings of boars

Macdonald, who owns A1 Vermin Control and Deer Management, said that hikers on the Great Glen Way are increasingly likely to see the boars.

He said: “Over the years, the number of sightings has increased because the population has grown. They are fast breeders with sows having a potential two or three litters of up to six piglets annually. At six months, the young sows can also breed so you can see how numbers quickly expand.

“It’s fairly common to spot the pigs all along the trail – and within half a mile of Inverness city centre – and they are often in groups of males, females and young.”

Public sightings, as well as reports of land damage and attacks on livestock, are recorded on both sides of famous tourist attraction Loch Ness, which stretches along the Great Glen Way, and as far apart as Fort Augustus, Dores, Whitebridge Drumnadrochit and Dochfour. The sighting close to Inverness was reportedly at Torvean Quarry, a privately owned woodland.

Call for action to reduce wild boar populations

In other recent newspaper reports, including The Telegraph, the Inverness Courier and the P&J, there have been calls by land owners, farmers and gamekeepers for action to better manage the boar numbers.

Gamekeeper Robert Sanderson told the P&J: “The population is now at the point where it is becoming unmanageable”. He added: “They will go everywhere and anywhere with tree coverage and fresh vegetation…. They destroy land very quickly.”

Stuart told Advnture that "more definitely needs to be done and urgently to control the growth and spread of the boars by trapping and shooting".

NatureScot states that primary responsibility for controlling what they call "feral pigs" lies with individual land managers.

A spokesperson said: “NatureScot and Forest and Land Scotland have developed best practice advice to guide land managers in controlling feral pig populations safely and humanely. A licence is not required as feral pigs are not a protected species.”

Meanwhile, animal welfare charity OneKind believes there is an atmosphere of negativity surrounding the boars and there should be a greater focus on "developing a culture of coexistence".

Safety advice for hikers on the Great Glen Way

Macdonald offers his advice for hikers on the Great Glen Way, which is a way-marked trail popular with both locals and tourists. Great Trails. He said: “In most cases, the pigs will run away from people. This is their natural instinct, just like many wild animals.

“No one wants to be scare-mongering but there is a growing reality to the problem of wild boars in the glen.

“The fact is they are wild and they can be big and aggressive beasts, plus they will defend themselves and, especially, their young.

“If you chance upon a wild boar, or a group, it’s best to stay still and remain calm, rather than running away or trying to scare them away.

“If the boar feels cornered or if they are protecting their young, they may try to attack, so it’s better if hikers stay on, or close to, the path and they should not accidentally stray into a wild boar habitat, or near to a nest.

“Dogs can be a real issue. Owners should be confident that their dog will walk to heel or, if on a lead, will stay at heel. Dogs that are roaming off the lead may inadvertently come into contact with the boars and this could lead to attacks.

“If you are with a dog and see the boars, you should have your dog held close to you with their collar and either wait calmly for the pigs to pass or aim to walk calmly past with your dog under control.

“If a pig does still attack, the advice is to let your dog go so that you do not face an attack as well.”

The NatureScot spokesperson added a more general warning about wildlife: “The public should always be aware of the potentially aggressive response by wildlife to the presence of dogs. Dogs should be kept within sight and under control but should be released if owner and dog are threatened. Do not linger in an area if wildlife is disturbed by your presence.”

Another recommendation is to avoid wild camping in areas close to the Great Glen Way because wild boars may be in the vicinity.

Why are there wild boars in Scotland?

There are many different stories of the origins of the 21st century wild boars. Scotland did once have large populations of the mammals but they became extinct in the 13th century due to hunting and habitat loss.

The new breeding populations, which are also known to exist in Lochaber, Dumfries & Galloway and Ross-shire, are thought to be a result of escapees from private collections and farms, and illegal releases.

One theory is that the boars were released from an estate near Invermoriston, close to the Great Glen Way. Other reports are of boar that originated from captivity in Achnacarry, also near the popular hiking trail, and Spean Bridge near to the southern end of the Great Glen Way.

Many people reckon the wild boars have bred with domestic pigs and the result is a feral mix-breed of pig.

However, Stuart has a different story. He said: “About 12 years ago, about 150 black Siberian boars, kept by a private estate on the west coat of the Highlands, got out of fencing.

“It’s thought that about 100 headed east and many ended up in the Great Glen area, as well as some in Lochaber. This is what I believe to be the main source of today’s population.

“People will tell you that the boars have bred with domestic pigs and that accounts for the different colours, some with pink patches. However, I think this is more likely due to in-breeding of close family relatives. I believe most of the boars seen today can be traced back to that estate escape.”

There are fresh counts of the boars in the area being undertaken at the moment by NatureScot and several partners. The spokesperson said: “Data from these counts is likely to be available in February 2025.”

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A popular grizzly bear known as Grizzly 399, resident of Grand Teton National Park near Yellowstone National Park, has sadly been fatally struck by a car south of Jackson, Wyoming. The accident happened on Highway 26/89 and 399 was later identified by her ear tags and microchip.

The oldest-known reproducing female grizzly bear had a yearling cub with her at the time of the collision, whose whereabouts is now unknown. Park rangers don’t believe it was involved in the accident but are monitoring the area.

Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins said, "Grizzly bear 399 has been perhaps the most prominent ambassador for the species. She has inspired countless visitors into conservation stewardship around the world and will be missed.”

Followers were quick to take to social media to express their sorrow and messages of hope for the cub’s wellbeing, with almost 600 messages amassing in less than 24 hours.

Patty Hudson Riordan said: Such heartbreaking news. So incredibly sad. Grateful for the opportunity to have seen her in May. Thanks for the memories, Queen of the Tetons.

Tee Tucker posted: I waited for her every spring, hopeful that we’d get another summer of watching her simply being the magnificent creature that she was. When she showed up last spring with Spirit, I was so excited. I hope that Spirit is found safe.

BK Gill called for change: This would be a good time to raise funds for wildlife corridor bridges and figure out how to enforce speeding laws in high wildlife traffic areas, so that she did not die in vain.

The accident comes as plans for two overpasses to stop animals getting hit by cars in Yellowstone move a step closer to fruition, with government funding awarded.

The overpasses would provide a safe way for animals to cross over the highway near Dome Mountain, an area of frequent animal collisions.

Elsewhere, figures have been released on vehicle collisions with grizzly bears from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team:

• From 2009-2023, there have been 49 grizzly bear mortalities (due to vehicle collisions in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE).
• This equates to 3.3 bears per year.
• In 2024 so far there have been two grizzly bear mortalities from vehicle strikes in Yellowstone.

Currently, there are at least 1,923 grizzly bears in the 48 lower US states.

Bear activity is on the rise in Yosemite National Park. This year alone there have been 34 separate bear incidents, causing a whopping $3,034 in damage. That’s already 6% more incidents than last year’s tally and 55% more than Yosemite’s quietest bear year in 2019.

With winter fast approaching, bears in the historic park are preparing for hibernation with as much food as they can find, leading to a spike in food-related incidents over the past few weeks.

Despite the growing number of incidents, nobody has ever been killed by a bear in Yosemite, so deadly attacks are unlikely. That said, they’re not out of the question. Bears kill between two and five people each year in North America and it’s crucial that anyone traveling through inhabited areas is prepared, so see our top tips for staying safe below.

Aim to avoid

The safest way to deal with bears is to avoid them altogether. Most bears want to be left alone by humans so rarely stray onto established trails. Hence they can be easily avoided by sticking to well worn routes and plotting your journey ahead of time.

In addition, bears are always on the move, so it’s well worth checking in with the nearest visitor center or backcountry office for the latest advice on where to trek to avoid unwanted visitors.

Remain calm

If you’re unfortunate enough to encounter a bear in the backcountry, don’t panic. Remember that most bears do not want to attack you, so aggressive movements and growling are often just tactics to assert their authority.

Advice on how to interact with grizzly and brown and black bears differs, although there are a few key principles that you should follow in both circumstances.

Crucially, you must make the bear aware you're human by identifying yourself in a low, steady voice and waving your arms slowly so the bear knows you're not a prey animal.

You mustn't attempt to ward off the bear by dropping your food or pack, this will only incentivise it to further pursue you.

Running is also out of the question. Most species of bear can run at around 30mph, covering 110 yards / 100 meters in only seven seconds. To make matters worse, running may trigger a bear's predatory instincts, identifying you as a potential threat to chase down immediately.

If the worst comes to the worst and you find yourself face to face with an aggressive brown or grizzly bear, play dead. Lay flat on your stomach with hands clasped around your neck and legs spread. This will signal that you’re not a threat and makes it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain still until the bear leaves and only fight back when absolutely necessary.

Do not play dead if you’re attacked by a black bear. Instead, try to find a secure area to shelter such as a car or building. If escape is not possible, fight back by aiming attacks at the bear's face.

Come prepared

Before embarking on a backcountry trek, it’s crucial that you prepare with the correct supplies and equipment. This is especially true when traversing bear country, where the right spray could save your life.

Used exclusively to stop attacks, bear spray temporarily incapacitates bears by targeting their senses, releasing a cloud of irritating capsaicin vapor.

“It’s like anything they’ve ever experienced,” explained biologist and Tooth and Claw podcast host Wes Larson. “They just want to get out of there instantly.”

It’s worth mentioning that bear spray is banned in Yosemite National Park, so can only be deployed elsewhere.

Emergency SOS equipment is also a must. Satellite communicators like the Garmin InReach Plus can call for help in remote backcountry locations without the need for a phone signal. Only last month, a Canadian hiker who’d been mauled by a bear was rescued after sending an SOS signal with his satellite communicator.

Although they’re rare, bear attacks are a very real possibility for backcountry hikers. For more on how to stay safe in the wilderness, check out our extensive safety guide.

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Two proposed wildlife overpasses in Yellowstone National Park, designed to minimize animal collisions, are moving forward after receiving funding government funding.

In the works for four years already, the overpasses would provide a safe way for animals to cross over a highway near Yellowstone’s Dome Mountain, an area of frequent animal collisions. Between 2012 and 2021, there were 74 reported instances of wildlife being hit by vehicles and 149 animal carcasses found in the five mile stretch between Livingstone and Gardiner, where the proposed overpasses would be.

Surrounded by public land and forests, the five mile stretch is a common spot for animal crossings, and with lots of crossings come lots of collisions. In the past decade, elk, deer and even a grizzly bear have been killed, with 50% of all crashes there involving an animal. Supporters hope that the two new overpasses will all but eliminate these accidents.

“When successfully implemented, wildlife crossing structures and the fencing that accompanies them can reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by more than 90 percent,” conservationist Blakeley Adkins, told Newsweek. “They keep wildlife alive, their migratory pathways viable, and our families safe.”

Championed by ‘Yellowstone Safe Passages’, a coalition of non-profit organizations, the overpass project has received state funding for a feasibility study, which will determine whether or not the project can ultimately go ahead.

If successful, the project will need to secure an estimated additional $35 million in construction funding, which is likely to take place in around a year or so. Despite the lengthy process, the YSP are hopeful that the overpasses will begin construction in the next two years. If all goes smoothly, the new overpass could be completed and in use by 2027.

“YSP is set up for success,” Adkins said via the Greater Yellowstone Coalition. “Progress is slow but we are ready to clear this next hurdle and keep going until we get to the finish line.”

Animal collisions in Yellowstone have increased in recent years as more and more people visit the ancient park. Last year alone, Yellowstone welcomed 4.5 million visitors, a whopping 36% increase on the previous year.

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Another Canadian hiker was mauled by a bear over the weekend, prompting officials to highlight the importance of carrying a satellite communicator in the event of an emergency in the backcountry. 

The attack on the 45-year-old man occurred in a remote area of Crowsnest Pass, southwest Alberta on Friday morning, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. A news release says the man was hiking near Window Mountain Lake when the bear attacked him, but did not disclose whether the bear was a grizzly or black bear. The incident took place just two weeks after another man was attacked by a grizzly bear northwest of Calgary.

Emergency services received the SOS activation at 11:19am from a Garmin device, prompting officials to dispatch to the area where they discovered the hiker with "extensive" injuries. The hiker was airlifted to a hospital in Calgary where he is being treated.

"No matter what your experience level is, while exploring the wilderness, SOS devices are an essential tool for anyone who may find themselves in an emergency situation," writes the RCMP.

"It is the most reliable way to call for help after sustaining an injury in an isolated area."

What is Garmin's SOS feature?

The Garmin inReach messenger is a tiny device that's a potential lifesaver when you're camping and hiking in remote locations. It connects to your phone via the Garmin Messenger app (available for both iOS and Android), and lets you send and receive text messages via satellite, letting you stay in touch even when there's no cellular connectivity.

You can also use the device to send an interactive SOS to Garmin's control room, which will put you in touch with the appropriate emergency or rescue services wherever you are in the world.

In order to use the inReach Messenger, you'll need a Garmin inReach subscription. There are long-term plans for regular explorers, plus monthly options if you're only planning to be away for a short time.

Bear safety

Knowing what to do if you meet a bear is a prerequisite for hiking on North America's trails. With black bears found across the country and the more aggressive grizzly bears found in several states, it's important to know how to avoid an encounter in the first place and what to do should you end up face-to-face with one.

Right now, bears are fattening up for winter torpor which means human-bear interactions are on the rise. If you are recreating in bear country, make sure you understand what to do if you meet a bear and keep your bear spray close to hand.

• A Montana man shot a grizzly bear during an attack – it saved his life, but here’s why experts say it’s not your best defense

Yellowstone National Park officials have issued a warning for visitors to stay away from bull elk during fall mating season, which is now in full swing.

Their language of love is not the same as ours – no whispering sweet nothings or taking the softly, softly approach. They are unpredictable and much more aggressive during this time of year – they can run quickly and may change direction without warning.

Attacks can be unprovoked and unpredictable and officials have reminded visitors that they are responsible for their own safety. They suggest following this advice:

• Always keep at least 25 yards (23m), or the length of two full-sized buses, from elk.
• If an elk approaches you, back away immediately.
• Look around corners before exiting buildings or walking around blind spots.
  
  And if an elk charges or runs towards you:
  
• Find shelter in your vehicle or behind a tall, sturdy barrier as quickly as possible.
• If nearby shelter is not available, run away.

What not to do

Despite advice, these tourists were filmed blocking the path of a bull elk as it tried to cross the road at Yellowstone.

Officials understand that visitors want mementoes of their trip and have offered the following recommendations for taking photos:

• Give them room, use your zoom.
• Never approach or pursue animals to take their picture.
• Lenses with focal lengths of 300mm or greater are recommended for adequate reach.

Learn more in our guide, how to enjoy elk rutting season safely.

Visit the National Park Service website for information on planning your visit.

Wildlife officers in southern Colorado have issued a public warning after seeing a "worriesome" increase in human-bear conflicts this summer. Earlier this year, we reported that 2023 had brought a significant drop in human-bear conflicts in the state.

According to a press release issued by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, significantly more bear traps have already been set this summer compared to last year, and they're not sure of the season for the uptick.

“It’s weird because things are green, we’ve had decent moisture and natural food is available, so it’s hard to explain why we are having so many issues,” says CPW Area Wildlife Manager Adrian Archuleta of Durango. 

“It’s been hot and heavy here for the last two or three weeks, and it’s not showing signs of slowing down."

Though it's normal for bear activity to increase ahead of hyperphagia, when bears fatten up before going into winter torpor, that doesn't typically occur until late summer early fall.

The news release explains that one reason for the increase might be down to more bears living in "marginal habitats" closer to human habitation. Regardless of the cause, however, CPW has a clear message for everyone in southern Colorado: remove attractants from your home and keep a clean camp.

“Incidents start with a bear getting into one cooler at a campground, and then a few weeks later, we have a bear getting into a tent or leaning on hard-sided campers,” says Archuleta, who added that at-home attractants like pet food, unsecured trash, uncleaned BBQ grills and hummingbird feeders also present an issue.

“The incidents people think are small – like that cooler or pet food – lead to behavior that presents a danger to human health and safety.”

“As this year is proving, just because you haven’t seen a bear in several years, doesn’t mean that one won’t show up this week and take advantage of a human food source. Make those food sources unavailable and a bear will move on," says Kevin Bryan, District Wildlife Manager in Cedaredge.

Staying safe while camping in bear country

The best way to deal with bear encounters is to avoid them in the first place. If you are camping in bear country, the CPW has the following advice:

• Do not keep food in your vehicle; roll up windows and lock the doors of your vehicles.
• If no bear lockers are available when car-camping, secure all food and coolers in the trunk of a locked vehicle.
• Keep a clean camp, whether you’re in a campground or in the backcountry.
• When camping in the backcountry, hang food 100 feet or more from the campsite in a bear bag; don’t bring any food into your tent.
• Set up your camping stove and camp kitchen well away from your tent and prepare all food at a distance; wash dishes thoroughly.

Learn more in our article on camping in bear country.

• The best camping coolers 2024: keep food and drinks delightfully chilled

A man has been caught at Yellowstone National Park giving a picture-perfect demonstration of how not to photograph the local wildlife, squatting down right beside a herd of bison to take close-ups at dangerously close range.

The man, wearing swim shorts and slides, completely ignored advice from the National Park Service (NPS) to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) from bison and elk at all times, and to ideally watch them from the safety of a vehicle.

A video of the encounter, which you can see below, was shared online by park visitor Scott Hansen, and was posted this week on Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone – a page that calls out bad behavior at US National Parks (often involving wildlife).

The NPS frequently reminds visitors to keep their distance around wildlife, particularly when taking photos. Earlier this year, Park Rangers warned visitors explicitly about the dangers of getting caught up in the excitement of seeing animals and wanting to capture the moment for posterity,

"If you want to take a picture of the animals, use a zoom lens on your camera," wrote officials in a blog post in February. "If you are close enough to take a selfie, you are wayyyy too close. If you see an animal, you are responsible for backing up to a safe distance, even if the animal moves toward you."

Be bison aware

Like all wild animals, bison can be unpredictable, and although they may seem docile at first, their mood can change quickly. Females (cows) are more likely to be aggressive when defending calves during the spring, while males (bulls) can be short-tempered during the breeding season in late summer.

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting," advises the NPS. "These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wild animals from a safe distance

Bison are easily aggravated during their mating season, as one family learned the hard way during a visit to Yellowstone National Park. The two adults and two children make the mistake of getting too close to a bull during the rut, and ended up being chased between trees by the agitated animal. 

A video of the incident, shared via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks this week, shows the animal charging with its rail raised and head bobbing in a characteristic display of aggression, narrowly avoiding trampling a young girl. In the clip, which you can see below, you can see the bison driving the visitors away in clouds of dust before eventually leaving the area.

The family was lucky to escape unscathed, and each year there are reports from US National Parks of other visitors who aren't so fortunate. Last year two people were gored by bison within a week at US National Parks, and in June an 83-year-old woman was injured in a bison attack at Yellowstone.

In its safety advice for Yellowstone, the National Park Service warns all visitors to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) from bison and elk, and 100 yards (91 meters) from large predators like bears and wolves.

"Give bison space when they are near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area," warns the NPS. "If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity. 

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting. These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for unexpected encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

A man visiting Yellowstone National Park has given a perfect demonstration of how not to photograph the native bison. Upon encountering a herd on the road, rather than staying within the safety of his vehicle as recommended by the National Park Service (NPS), the visitor got out and approached the animals, using his iPad to snap pictures at dangerously close range.

The man continued to draw nearer while other drivers stuck in a growing traffic jam watched in disbelief, and only moved when a Park Ranger intervened and told him to back off. A video of the encounter, shot by photographer Jackie Boesinger Meredyk and shared via infamous Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week, shows just how close the man managed to get to the powerful animals.

"He reaches the herd of bison, who were being nudged forward by park law enforcement, and fearlessly stepped right up to the herd to get his shots," explained Boesinger Meredyk. "Stunned law enforcement officer says, 'You need to get 25 yards away' at which point the man ends his filming and so pleased with himself, returns to his car.”

Getting up close and personal with the wildlife is one of the biggest mistakes people make when visiting Yellowstone. Although bison and elk may seem docile at first, they are unpredictable and their behavior can change in an instant, particularly if they feel threatened. 

The National Park Service (NPS) warns visitors to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from elk and bison at all times, and 100 yards (91 meters) away from wolves and bears. The safest place to watch wildlife is from inside your car (though pierced bodywork and punctured tires are still a risk if you're unlucky).

"Give bison space when they are near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area. If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity," says the NPS.

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting. These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

Bison attacks

Bison, like all wild animals, generally prefer to avoid close contact with people, but females can be particularly aggressive in the spring when defending their calves (also known as 'red dogs' for their ginger-colored fur), and males can be more prone to attack during the rutting season in late summer as they compete for dominance and the right to mate.

Last summer two people were gored by bison at US National Parks within a week, both of whom suffered abdominal injuries. The first victim was charged while walking near the north shore of Lake Yellowstone, while the second was attacked at Painted Canyon Trailhead in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

"Bison are large, powerful, and wild," said the NPS in a statement at the time. "They can turn quickly and can easily outrun humans. Bulls can be aggressive during the rutting (mating) season, mid-July through August. Use extra caution and give them additional space during this time."

For more advice, see our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for unexpected encounters.

• Get a free 148-page ebook celebrating the world's greatest National Parks

When you recreate around big mammals, you need to have a good handle on wildlife safety. If you get charged by wild boar, grab your trekking poles and fight back. If what’s lumbering towards you is a moose, jump behind the nearest tree. As for a grizzly bear sprinting full pelt towards you? Better unholster that bear spray.

But it turns out that there are occasions when you might use your bear spray on a beast other than a bear. I was reminded of this during a recent chat with wildlife expert Bo Welden, who leads wildlife tours in Yellowstone National Park. Welden's can of bear spray has seen plenty of action over the years, and not always on bears. 

There have been a few moose stompings already this year, including one fatal attack in Alaska and several incidents in one week in Colorado. So defending yourself from moose might have been on your mind more lately. Is bear spray an option? Read on to find out whether bear spray is effective against the mighty moose, and how to use it as a last resort.

Does bear spray work on moose?

As we uncover in our article on using bear spray on mountain lions, bear spray – that's aerosol deterrent spray loaded with highly concentrated capsaicin and capsaicinoids – is effective against all mammals, and yes, that includes moose. Why it’s called bear spray then and not mammal spray isn’t totally clear, but it’s probably because you’re more likely to need it against a grizzly than other mammals.

Needless to say, bear spray should only be used as a deterrent when an animal is threatening you. It should never be used as a preventative measure when an animal, moose or otherwise, is just minding its own business in an area you want to hike through. It’s your responsibility to understand wildlife safety when you’re outdoors. That means keeping your eyes and ears peeled for wildlife, maintaining a safe distance of at least 25 yards when you encounter wildlife (100 yards for bears and wolves), and moving away if they move towards you.

If you do all this and still find yourself being charged by a moose, the best advice is to try to put something between yourself and said moose – a tree, a car or a large boulder. Moose can’t easily change direction so this is usually enough to save yourself from a trampling. 

However, moose can run faster than you’d think judging by their spindly legs and if you realize it’s likely to reach you before you can get to the closest tree, then deploying bear spray is an appropriate measure, according to the wildlife officials at the City of Valdez in Alaska who say that pepper spray will work just as well on a moose as it does on a bear. Just make sure it’s your last resort. 

How to use bear spray on moose

Using bear spray on a moose is largely the same as using bear spray on a bear, but for one key difference. To use bear spray against any mammal, you should do what you can to ensure you’re not downwind of the spray direction to avoid accidentally pepper spraying yourself, which will hurt almost as much as being trampled but with less lasting damage.

Remove the spray from the holster and hold it in two hands with your arms outstretched, one hand on the can and the other on the trigger. Wait until the moose is within ten yards (30 feet) of you then press down on the button and spray for at least four seconds, spraying in a zig-zag pattern. 

Here comes the main difference: whereas when you spray a bear, you want to angle the can slightly down towards the bear’s face, which will be closer to the ground when it’s moving on all fours, a moose’s face is likely to be significantly higher. Most moose stand six feet tall at the shoulder, so if you spray in a slightly downward fashion you’ll most likely just pepper spray its knobbly knees. Even if you’re tall you’re probably going to need to aim slightly upwards for the spray to be effective.

When the moose has been deterred, holster that spray and get yourself out of the area swiftly. You can learn more in our article on how to use bear spray.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

Bull elk can be particularly aggressive during late summer and early fall, as one driver learned the hard way at Jasper National Park in Canada. The animals are currently in their mating season (known as the rut), when males compete for dominance by displaying their antlers, bugling, and sometimes fighting rivals. It's a spectacular sight, but even careful drivers may find themselves facing a repair bill if a particularly aggressive bull takes a dislike to their vehicle.

A video of this particular incident (which you can see below) was shared online this week via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks. The account usually documents instances of bad behavior at sites of natural beauty around the world, often involving wildlife, but sometimes people just get unlucky.

"What the video does not show is that the bull elk came from the left side of the highway so traffic stopped to let it go across," explained photographer John Krampl, who shot the footage last September. "But, the cows were on the right side of the highway and the bull saw that car as being in between him and his cows so he became aggressive. Just acting his natural behaviour and unfortunately this car was in his way. "

"Though they might not appear threatening, elk can be aggressive and attack without warning," Parks Canada warns people planning a visit to Jasper. "In the spring calving season (May - June) female elk aggressively defend their young. During the fall mating season (Aug - Sept), male elk are particularly belligerent. Do not approach elk in any season as they are dangerous and can attack without warning."

Visitors are warned to stay at least 30 meters away from elk at all times, and never get between a male and a harem of females.

"Do not park your vehicle between a male and the females," Parks Canada says. "Elk may charge at your vehicle, which may result in damage

Elk safety

To keep yourself and your family safe, it's always best to travel together and keep children within arm's reach. During the rut, watch out for warning signs including male animals lowering their antlers towards you, pawing the ground, or thrashing at bushes. Agitated elk may also make short bluff charges before charging for real.

If you find yourself in close quarters with an elk, Parks Canada advises you to act dominant, and raise your arms or jacket to make yourself look larger. Maintain eye contact with the animal and move away, seeking protection behind a tree or vehicle. If you are knocked down, get up and move away; if you play dead, you may be trampled and seriously injured.

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to enjoy elk rutting season safely and wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

A dog-owner visiting Grand Teton National Park nearly learned a very tough lesson about wildlife safety after letting their pet off its leash near a herd of bison. A video recorded by another park visitor (which you can watch below) shows the two animals facing off against one another. The bison is very agitated by the curious dog, flicking its tail and kicking up clouds of dust, but luckily for the pet and its owner, it only makes a bluff charge to force the animal back.

Many wild animals, including elk, moose and bison, usually treat domestic dogs the same way as wolves, and will attack and try to trample them. These animals rarely attack humans, and if they do, it is often a result of them being spooked by a dog.

Pets are allowed in Grand Teton National Park, but there are strict rules to ensure they and the local wildlife are kept safe. They must be restrained at all times, and are not permitted inside facilities like visitor centers, or on trails.

"A good rule of thumb is that a pet may go anywhere a car may go: roads and road shoulders, campgrounds and picnic areas, parking lots, etc," advises the National Park Service (NPS). "Pets must be on a leash (six feet or less), under physical restraint, and within 30 feet of the roadway. Pets are not permitted on any park trails or in the backcountry."

Pets are not considered pack animals, so you can't load your four-legged companion up with a doggie backpack to carry your hiking gear. For a full list of rules and restrictions, take a look at the official Grand Teton National Park website.

Qualified service animals are allowed throughout the park, but must also be kept on a leash. People with service animals are asked to complete a service animal acknowledgement form at a visitor center when they arrive. Check out the full guidance for service animals.

If you're planning a hiking trip with your dog, there are many National Parks that are better suited. Our roundup of the 8 best National Parks for dogs has some great suggestions where pets are welcome to join your adventures.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

A family has been caught on camera feeding bears from their rented lodge in the Great Smoky Mountains, putting the animals and the public at risk. According to USA Today, which published the video, the incident took place in downtown Gatlinburg, which often serves as a base for people visiting nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

USA Today reports that the clip was shot last week by Michelle Payne, who spotted the group, including two young children, tossing food to the animals. According to Payne, police managed to scare the bears away by sounding their car sirens. However, the animals returned later, illustrating exactly why feeding wildlife is such a problem, however well-intentioned.

When wild animals are fed by people, they often lose their natural wariness (a phenomenon called habituation), and are more likely to approach people and settlements in future. This increases the chances of a dangerous close encounter if the animal believes its food source is threatened.

Habituated bears that are deemed a threat to public safety may be relocated or even euthanized. They are also more likely to be hit by cars, or be easy targets for poachers.

Bear safety

The National Park Service (NPS) warns visitors that bears can be found throughout the Smokies, and over the last decade an average of 339 negative human-bear encounters have been reported each year (with many more going undocumented). 

"The bear's keen sense of smell leads it to insects, nuts, and berries, but the animal is also enticed by the tantalizing smells of human food and garbage such as hot dogs, apple cores, chips, and watermelon rinds left on the ground in picnic areas, campgrounds, and along trails," says the NPS.

Not only can bears that have access to human food become unpredictable and dangerous, they can also teach others where to find scraps and garbage, exacerbating the problem.

People who feed bears, store food improperly, or litter within Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself can face fines up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail.

USA Today has contacted police in Gatlinburg and the owners of the lodge regarding the incident last week, and is awaiting a reply. 

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

With their magnificent antlers and bugling calls, bull elk are at their most impressive during the rutting season, so it may be tempting to get close for a better look at them, but as these tourists learned, it's much safer to give them space and watch from a safe distance.

A video shared this week via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone shows a large group of people who have gathered to watch a group of elk at the roadside. One has stopped their truck in the middle of the road, causing traffic to back up, while others have left their vehicles for a better view.

As you can see in the clip, which is embedded below, one particular bull elk reacts to this intrusion by charging the stopped truck, sending those on foot sprinting back to the safety of their cars.

Elk generally prefer to avoid close encounters with people, but males (bulls) are more likely to show aggression during the rut in the fall, while females (cows) are prone to charging when protecting their young calves in the spring.

Usually elk will begin with a bluff charge intended to drive the potential threat away, but they are powerful animals and can cause serious injuries if they knock a person down. Last month, people in Estes Park, Colorado (a town famous for its elk population) were warned to take care after several elk attacks were reported within a week.

In one incident, a four-year-old boy was injured after accidentally getting too close to a pair of elk calves that were hidden near a playground. A family member scared the animal away and the child was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment before being released.

Rangers later found several cow elk near the playground and drove them away using non-lethal beanbag rounds.

Elk safety

The National Park Service (NPS) warns people visiting Yellowstone to always give animals plenty of space, and never deliberately approach or distract them. Visitors should stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) from elk and bison, and 100 yards (93 meters) from predators like bears and wolves.

The NPS says the safest place to watch wildlife is from within your car, but you should always respect the animals and other road users. 

"Use pullouts to watch wildlife and let other cars pass," say officials. "Stay with your vehicle if you encounter a wildlife jam."

If you're planning to visit a National Park this fall, our guide how to enjoy elk rutting season safely is packed with advice to help you enjoy watching these impressive animals without disturbing them.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

It's rutting season for bison at Yellowstone National Park, with hormones running high and tempers fraying, but it seems some visitors just can't resist the opportunity to get up close to the huge animals, regardless of the danger.

The latest example, shared via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week, involves a woman who decided to approach a particularly large specimen for some close-up photos, then turned her back to pose for pictures with it. According to  Aimee Lopez, who snapped some shots of the incident from the safety of her car, the visitor then went even further and tried to stroke the animal.

"These were taken in Yellowstone yesterday," Lopez wrote online. "It got worse, she tried to pet it. At that point, I drove up the road and got a ranger."

According to the National Park Service (NPS), bison are the most dangerous animals at Yellowstone, responsible for more injuries than predators like bears and wolves. Just a few weeks ago, an 83-year-old woman suffered serious injuries when she was gored by a bison at the park. According to rangers, the animal was acting in self-defence when it lashed out.

"The bison, defending its space, came within a few feet of the woman and lifted her about a foot off the ground with its horns," said an NPS spokesperson after the incident.

Officials also took the opportunity to remind the public to respect animals at the park. "Visitors: it’s your responsibility to respect safety regulations and view wildlife from a safe distance," they said. "Move away from wildlife if they approach you."

Be bison aware

Approaching or distracting wildlife at US National Parks is a federal crime, and those found guilty may face hefty fines or even jail time.

The NPS warns visitors to stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from bison and elk at all times, and 100 yards (93 meters) from wolves and bears.

The safest way to watch wildlife is from within your car, using a zoom lens or a pair of binoculars to get a good view. If you're driving, only stop in dedicated pullouts to watch animals. Don't stop in the road and hold up traffic.

For more advice, take a look at our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

Bears are intelligent, dextrous, and quick to spot an easy meal – as one driver learned the hard way recently in the Great Smoky Mountains.

A video recorded by a resident's Ring doorbell captured the moment a mother bear approached an unattended vehicle with her unusually large litter of five cubs. In the clip, which you can watch below, the adult pulls herself onto her hind legs to investigate an open window. 

Having smelled something interesting, she easily climbs up the door, leans inside, and retrieves a bag of food.

Wild animals accessing human food is a serious problem, whether it's a result of carelessness or people deliberately feeding them. Animals that get used to interacting with people become habituated, meaning they lose their natural wariness around humans.

This makes them more likely to seek out people and settlements in future, and increases the risk of a dangerous close encounter. Bears are likely to lash out if their or their food source is threatened, and bears that injure a person may be relocated or even euthanized for public safety. Habituation can also make them more likely to be hit by cars, or become targets for poachers.

Bear safety

The National Park Service (NPS) warns people visiting the Great Smoky Mountains that the whole area is bear territory, and around 340 negative bear encounters are reported each year (with many more going unreported). 

"The bear's keen sense of smell leads it to insects, nuts, and berries, but the animal is also enticed by the tantalizing smells of human food and garbage such as hot dogs, apple cores, chips, and watermelon rinds left on the ground in picnic areas, campgrounds, and along trails," says the NPS.

Park Rangers can issue citations for people who litter, feed bears, or store food incorrectly. Those found guilty could face a fine up to $5,000, and up to six months in jail.

"Visitors are urged to view all wildlife at a safe distance and to never throw food or garbage on the ground or leave it unattended," the NPS says. "Garbage kills bears!"

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching bears and other wildlife from a safe distance

A couple visiting Yellowstone National Park have delivered a textbook example of how not to photograph wildlife, cornering a large bison in a parking lot to take pictures on their phones.

A video of the dangerously close encounter, shared via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week, shows the pair slowly approaching the animal from behind, seemingly unaware of the danger. After a few moments seemingly photographing the animal's backside, one of the pair draws even closer, getting within a couple of meters.

According the the National Park Service (NPS), bison are responsible for more injuries than any other animal at Yellowstone, including bears, wolves and snakes, and every year there are reports of people suffering serious injuries after getting too close (intentionally or accidentally).

Last month, an 83-year-old woman was badly injured when she was gored by a bison at Yellowstone. Officials say the animal was defending its space, and the victim was lifted about a foot off the ground on its horns.

Official advice from the NPS dictates that visitors should stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) from bison and elk at all times, and 100 yards (93 meters) from predators including bears and wolves. Ideally, you should stay within the safety of your car and enjoy watching using a pair of binoculars (our roundup of the best binoculars includes great options for all budgets).

You should also avoid blocking traffic to watch animals. Instead of holding up other drivers, use dedicated pullouts so other vehicles can pass while you enjoy the view.

For more advice, take a look at our guides wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters and how to avoid being gored by a bison.

Hormones are running high in Yellowstone National Park as bison enter their mating season, known as the rut. Males are particularly prone to aggression as they compete for dominance, so it's more important than ever to make sure you give them plenty of space, whether you're traveling by foot or car.

A video compilation posted last week via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone (which you can see below) shows exactly what can happen to even careful drivers during this time of year if they encounter a particularly highly-strung male.

The National Park Service (NPS) warns that "The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car," and this collection of clips shows exactly why. Bison are powerful animals, and their sharp horns can easily tear through a vehicle's bumper if they take exception to your presence.

Last year, a couple went viral after they posted a video of their close encounter with a bison that rammed their car without provocation and pierced the front right tire. The Instagram account on which it was shared usually documents bad behavior like people taunting elk or trying to pet bears, but this incident was just bad luck. 

Bison safety

Summer is one of the best times of year to see bison, as the males engage in bellowing, wallowing and fighting. It can also be particularly dangerous, but with the right precautions you can enjoy the spectacular sights safely.

The NPS advises always staying at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from large herbivores like bison and elk, and 100 yards (91 meters) from wolves and bears.

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting," says the NPS. "These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

If you're planning a visit to a US National Park over the coming weeks, take a look at our guide wildlife safety: eight tips for unexpected encounters. Our list of wildlife photography tips from a pro will also come in handy, giving you expert advice to help you capture natural animal behavior while keeping you and them safe.

• The best hiking boots: our top recommendations for comfortable adventures

Bears naturally prefer to avoid close encounters with people, and will typically leave an area if they know you are coming (hence the advice to talk and make noise when hiking through their territory). However, they won't hesitate to defend themselves if they feel threatened, as one man discovered recently after spotting one of the animals at the roadside and moving in for a closer look.

A video shared this week via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks (which you can watch below) depicts a man recording himself approaching a bear that he had noticed in the undergrowth while driving. Disturbed by the intrusion, the bear dashes under a guardrail, sending the person stumbling back before the video cuts out.

Those found guilty of approaching bears can even face jail time if a judge decides to make an example of them. In 2021, a woman was sentenced to four days in jail for approaching a grizzly bear and her cubs at Yellowstone National Park. 

A video of Samantha Dehring, from Illinois, went viral after she wandered up to the bears to snap some photos and refused to move back even after the sow made a bluff charge. 

"Approaching a sow grizzly with cubs is absolutely foolish," said Bob Murray, acting US attorney for Wyoming, at the time "Here, pure luck is why Dehring is a criminal defendant and not a mauled tourist."

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

Picture the scene. You’re driving through Lamar Valley in beautiful Yellowstone National Park when suddenly, a dark moving figure off to the side of the road catches your attention. A bear and her cubs!

There’s nowhere to pull off, but no way you’re missing out on this wildlife viewing opportunity, plus the two cars ahead have already pulled over. So you pull as close to the side of the road as you can and jump out without even lacing up your hiking boots to get a closer look.

Only a few minutes go by before there are dozens of cars half-parked on the road, their owners and passengers milling about trying to get the best shot, and a queue of gridlocked cars snaking a half mile in either direction. You’ve successfully created your first bear jam. And that’s a problem.

What is a bear jam?

Sadly, a bear jam doesn’t involve a bunch of bears shucking and jiving to some sweet tunes, though that would be cool. A non-technical term, “bear jam” is now frequently used by the National Parks Service to describe the increasingly common phenomenon of traffic jams forming around bears on the side of the road.

Now naturally, you should be driving through any National Park with caution, and if you see a bear on the side of the road, or a moose, bighorn sheep or any other big mammal for that matter, you should slow down. 

A bear jam occurs when the flow of traffic becomes so slow as to impede other drivers, and often involves multiple cars stopping or illegally parking on the roadside in order to watch – or photograph – a bear. 

Bear jams have become such a problem that some spots like Canada’s Yoho National Park have enacted temporary laws restricting stopping or slowing to view wildlife.

What's the problem with bear jams?

Obviously no one wants to hit a bear with their car. Though there are no national figures on bear deaths caused by vehicles, the state of Pennsylvania alone reports between 400 and 500 bear deaths caused by cars each year, and the National Parks Service blames speeding. And for what it’s worth, your car won’t do so well in that kind of situation either. 

So you slow down when you see a bear. But doesn’t that just make everything safer?

The problem arises when drivers start to crawl at a rate where other cars might attempt to pass them, or pull over illegally, often on stretches of road where there is nowhere safe to do so. Then they might roll down their windows or, worse still, get out of their cars and start wandering around trying to take photographs of the bears, crowding bears and even chasing them. Meanwhile, other drivers are trying to continue through the area but are being forced over the median line, obstructing oncoming traffic. 

Add to all this the presence of a bear and maybe a couple of cubs scurrying around the road and before you know it, you’ve got yourself a bear jam. Bear jams almost always take place in areas where your line of sight is restricted and they pose a hazard for other drivers and endanger the lives of people and bears on the road. The rare white bear that Yoho enacted temporary laws to protect was sadly killed by a car on the same day her cubs were struck in a separate incident.

In a video about bear jams created by the NPS, Yellowstone rangers explain that large numbers of humans stopping on the roadside to watch bears frolicking in meadows also means bears get habituated to humans and may associate them with food, if you’re foolish enough to feed them. When bears lose their fear of humans, it can mean they end up being euthanized, and that’s a needless tragedy.

Furthermore, causing a bear jam could land you with huge fines. When Yoho imposed temporary speed limits, penalties ranged from a $115 ticket to a mandatory court appearance and a maximum fine of $25,000, while down in Grand Teton National Park, a wildlife photographer just racked up $20,000 worth of legal fees fighting a speeding ticket he incurred when photographing an injured grizzly bear. Bear jams can be costly and dangerous to everyone around.

How to avoid bear jams

No one expects you to not observe, or even photograph, a bear when you see one from your car. Bears are incredible creatures and parks like Yellowstone are set up to maximize your wildlife opportunities. 

However, that leaves the burden of responsibility on you to not create a dangerous situation, which if nothing else might cause you to be publicly shamed on Instagram. 

The good news is that there are steps you can take to avoid causing a bear jam. The following is official advice from Yellowstone rangers on avoiding bear jams:

1. Obey all traffic laws and posted speed limits at all times.
2. If you see a bear on the side of the road, slow down and put your hazard lights on to alert the driver behind you.
3. Only stop if there is a designated pull-out where you can legally and safely do so.
4. If you are safely parked, do not exit your vehicle. Standing in the road increases the danger to everybody. Photograph the bear from inside your car, or enjoy it from a distance using your binoculars.
5. Let animals decide where they’re going to go, and give them the right of way. Stay at least 100 yards away from bears. If they move closer to you, it’s your job to back off.

• 6 wildlife photography tips from a pro

Yellowstone National Park is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, but the risks posed by wildlife and the park's geothermal features mean parents should keep a close eye on their kids at all times. They certainly shouldn't follow the example of a couple who were filmed at the park recently risking their children's safety by snapping photos of a particularly angry bison as the animal bears down on them.

The video, which was shared via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week, shows a bison approaching the family in a parking lot with its tail flicking side to side – a classic sign that the animal is agitated and likely to charge. Rather than get inside their vehicle as soon as possible, the adults take this as an opportunity to snap some close-up photos.

As you can see below, this time the family was lucky and managed to escape without injury, but not everyone is so lucky. Each year, there are reports of visitors being attacked and gored by bison at US National Parks after getting too close.

Earlier this month, an 83-year-old woman was gored by a bison at Yellowstone, suffering serious injuries.

"The bison, defending its space, came within a few feet of the woman and lifted her about a foot off the ground with its horns," said a representative for the National Park Service (NPS) in a news report. The incident remains under investigation, but the NPS took the opportunity to remind visitors that they are responsible for their own safety.

Be bison aware

The NPS advises always staying at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from large herbivores like bison and elk, and 100 yards (91 meters) from wolves and bears.

"Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting," says the NPS. "These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent."

If you're planning a visit to a US National Park over the coming weeks, take a look at our guide wildlife safety: eight tips for unexpected encounters. Our list of wildlife photography tips from a pro will also come in handy, giving you expert advice to help you capture natural animal behavior while keeping you and them safe.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching animals from a safe distance

A car is the safest place to watch wildlife, according to the National Park Service, but even then it pays to take time and give the animals space, as one driver learned at Yellowstone National Park. 

In a video shared via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone at the weekend, a visitor can be seen becoming impatient at the head of a large bison jam and trying to drive around the animal rather than wait for it to finish crossing. The bison (a particularly large specimen) doesn't take too kindly to this intrusion and uses its powerful horns to rip off the vehicle's rear bumper like it's made of paper.

This incident probably happened during the animals' mating season (known as the rut) during the late summer or fall. As you can see in the clip below, the bison is exhibiting a flehmen response, using its tongue to draw air to an olfactory organ in the roof of its mouth to help it detect whether there is a female nearby that is ready to mate.

"Bison do not pose a threat to people unless you get too close," explains the NPS. "Many bison-related injuries in Yellowstone result from people approaching them to take a picture. Use a camera with a telephoto lens to take photos from more than 25 yards away."

Always keep an eye out for changes in the animal's behavior that suggest it might be unsettled by your presence. Stopping what it's doing and turning to face you, swinging its head back and forth while staring at you, pawing the ground or hooking the ground with its horns, and making short bluff charges are all signs that you're still too close for comfort.

"Always have an escape plan by identifying nearby protective cover like trees and cars," advises the NPS. "If there’s no cover, turn around or wait for the bison to leave the area. Bison don’t like dogs, so keep dogs leashed when bison are in the area (leashes are required in Yellowstone). Finally, bear spray can be effective at deterring an aggressive bison."

For more advice, see our guides how to avoid being gored by a bison and wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

A man visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park has given a perfect demonstration of how not to behave around bears – particularly when cubs are involved. The tourist spotted a female and her three offspring on a road near a parking lot, and rather than back away and give them space, he decided to hold his hand out to the young animals, beckoning them forward.

The incident was caught on camera by another park visitor, who shared the resulting video via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks – a page that calls out bad behavior at sites of natural beauty around the world, often involving wildlife.

Predictably, the sow went on the defensive and made a bluff charge at the man, giving him a fright and forcing him back so her cubs could cross the road safely. He was lucky; like all wild animals, bears are very protective of their young, and are likely to attack any perceived threat.

The NPS warns visitors that all of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is bear country, and over 300 negative encounters with the animals are reported every year (with many more going unreported). 

Visitors are advised to be particularly careful when walking dogs, which are involved in the majority of these incidents. Dogs are only permitted in campgrounds, in picnic areas, on roads, and on the Gatlinburg and Oconaluftee River trails. If visiting the park with your pet, you should should keep it on a leash no longer than 6ft at all times, and never allow it to bark at or chase a bear.

"If your dog gets into an encounter with a bear, there is about a 50 percent chance that it will be injured or killed – and an even higher chance you'll be injured if you intervene," says the NPS. 

Respect the bears

Deliberately approaching, distracting, or feeding wild animals in US National Parks is illegal, and those found guilty can expect a fine, or even jail time.

In 2021, a young woman was fined over $2,000 and sentenced to four days in jail after approaching a grizzly bear sow and her cubs to take photos at Yellowstone National Park. As ABC News reported at the time, 15-year-old Samantha Dehring from Illinois, was also given a year of unsupervised probation.

"Approaching a sow grizzly with cubs is absolutely foolish," said , acting US attorney Bob Murray on behalf of the District of Wyoming in a statement after the sentencing. "Here, pure luck is why Dehring is a criminal defendant and not a mauled tourist."

• The best binoculars: top recommendations for watching wildlife from a safe distance

Summer is one of the best times to spot grizzly bears at US National Parks, and seeing one from a safe distance can be the highlight of your vacation. However, it's important to always give the animals plenty of space, and avoid disturbing or distracting them.

A video currently circulating on social media shows what happens if you ignore Park Rangers' warnings to keep your distance. In the clip, which was shared last week via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks, a man can be seen approaching a grizzly cub with one hand outstretched, seemingly trying to coax it to approach. Bears, like most wild animals, prefer to avoid such close encounters with people, and  the cub reacts by charging to drive him back.

The bear moves fast and the man is forced to climb onto his car roof to escape. Such an obstacle would prove no barrier if the animal was determined to reach him (it's a common misconception that grizzlies are poor climbers), but luckily for him, the animal seems satisfied that the threat has been neutralized. 

It's not clear exactly where this particular clip was filmed (it was likely not in the US), but as summer hiking season gets into full swing, it's a timely reminder to respect wildlife and give animals the space they need to behave naturally.

Even if they don't lash out, being approached and fed by people can lead to habituation, where animals lose their natural wariness around humans. This increases the chances of a negative interaction in the future, as the habituated animal is more likely to approach people and settlements in search of food. If deemed a risk to public safety, they may be relocated or even euthanized.  

Be bear aware

The National Park Service (NPS) advises hikers that the best way to avoid a bear encounter is to make sure they know you are coming in advance by making noise as you walk. It's safest to hike in groups; bear attacks are less common when people are together, so talking and singing are good ways to make your presence known.

You should also carry bear spray and make sure you know how to use it in an emergency.

Different parks will have their own recommendations depending on the observed behavior of local animals, but if you stumble to come across a bear in the wild, the general advice is to talk in low tones. This will let the bear know that you're a person, and help keep both of you calm. Remember that a bear is more likely to be curious than aggressive, though the chances of an attack increase greatly if a sow perceives you as a threat to her cubs.

You should never run, scream, or make other loud noises, as this can trigger the bear's instinct to chase. Instead, make yourself look as large as possible and leave the area or take a detour. If that's not possible, wait until the bear leaves of its own accord.

For more advice, see our guides what to do if you meet a bear and wildlife safety: eight tips for unexpected encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

A tourist visiting Jackson Hole, Wyoming, learned a tough lesson about wildlife safety after he tried to make a resting moose get up and pose for photos at the roadside. The animal (a particularly large male) stood and seemed to tolerate the man's presence for a moment, but soon turned and charged.

When faced with an angry moose, the usual advice is to run and get behind something sturdy like a tree, boulder or building, but this man instead yelped, dropped to the ground and played dead. It was a risky strategy – moose typically use their powerful legs to trample animals they perceive as a threat – but luckily for the tourist it was enough to make the bull lose interest and leave.

A video of the incident (which you can see below) was shared via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week as a warning to give wildlife plenty of space. It comes just days after several attacks by moose in Colorado. A runner was hospitalized after being trampled by a moose on June 3, and a man and his dogs were attacked in the same area on June 4.

"Angry momma chased us down the street and in between some homes where she proceeded to kick and stomp all three of us," he wrote on Instagram later.

Moose are not typically aggressive, but they are as unpredictable as any other wild animal, and can charge with little warning if they or their young are threatened. Despite their size and seemingly spindly legs, they can reach speeds up to 35mph, and can weigh over 1,000lb, so being trampled by one could be fatal.

Female moose (cows) are often defensive at this time of year, when they are likely to be protecting calves, so it pays to be especially cautious. Moose tend to react particularly badly around dogs, which they treat like wolves. Males (bulls) are more dangerous during their mating season in the fall, known as the rut, when they are competing for dominance and hormones are running high.

If you accidentally find yourself in close quarters with a moose, secure pets and small children, talk calmly to show that you are not a threat, and back away. For more advice, see our guide what to do if you see a moose while hiking.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance

As hiking season gets underway, a pair of tourists at Yellowstone National Park have given a perfect demonstration of how not to enjoy watching and photographing the wildlife. The duo were spotted in Hayden Valley taking it in turns to pose with a particularly large bison, seemingly oblivious to how dangerous these powerful creatures can be. According to the National Park Service (NPS), they are responsible for more injuries than any other animals at Yellowstone, including bears, wolves and snakes.

A video of the incident, which you can watch below, was shared via Instagram account TouronsOfYellowstone this week. It was shot by wildlife biologist Jeremy Jacobs, who explains that it was recorded during the rut last fall, when male bison are particularly aggressive as they compete for dominance and the right to mate.

This particular animal appears calm, but a bison's mood can change in a second, which can have serious consequences.

"The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how calm they appear to be," says the NPS in its safety guidance for visitors. "The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car."

It's a lesson that one hiker learned the hard way in 2022, when she encountered a small bison herd while hiking alone in Caprock Canyons State Park, Texas. Rather than taking an alternative route and extending her hike, Rebecca Clark decided to carefully creep past the animals. At first they seemed to tolerate her presence, but when she was nearly past, one bull charged and gored her, leaving her with a serious puncture wound to her back

Clark later admitted she was too close, and shared a video of the attack online as a warning to other hikers who may encounter bison on their adventures.

Bison safety

"Bison are unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans," warns the NPS. "Always stay at least 25 yards (23m) away from bison."

You may see the animals near developed areas or on trails, which often provide the easiest route for them to get around the park. If necessary, you should turn around and head back the way you came to avoid coming into close quarters with them.

Bluff charging, bellowing, snorting, and pawing the ground are all signs that a bison is agitated and is likely to make a serious charge. According to the NPS, you should never try to stand your ground in such a situation. Instead, walk or run away, and use your bear spray if the bison follows (our guide how to use bear spray explains everything you need to know about carrying and deploying it).

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching bison and other animals from a safe distance

Elk use their antlers to display dominance and spar during the mating season, but they will also readily use them to defend themselves against potential threats, including careless photographers. That's a lesson a man almost learned the hard way at Banff National Park when he almost sat on a bull elk as he posed for selfies with the animal.

A video of the close call (which you can see below) was shared this week via Instagram account TouronsOfNationalParks, which calls out bad behavior at sites of natural beauty around the world. Bull elk are most aggressive during the rut in the fall, but can be unpredictable and dangerous all year round. This bull's antlers are still covered in velvet, but he shouldn't be underestimated.

It's rare for elk to attack people, but it does sometimes happen. It's most common when dogs are involved, but officials are currently investigating an incident last week when a young girl was attacked by a cow elk, seemingly without provocation.

“This is an unusual and unfortunate situation where a young girl was playing outside, far from the calf, and a cow elk became aggressive to protect her newborn,” said Jason Duetsch, Area Wildlife Manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). 

The cow became aggressive again when a CPW officer arrived on the scene, prompting him to haze the animal with a non-lethal beanbag round.

No tolerance for humans

Parks Canada warns visitors to respect elk, and to give the animals plenty of space when exploring Banff.

"Just because you see them in town, on playing fields or feeding near the roadside, please don't mistake these elk for tame animals," the organization explains. "These wild animals do not have a tolerance of humans getting too close and will lash out with hooves or charge with antlers forward if disturbed."

For more advice on what to do if you encounter an elk during a hike, check out our guide wildlife safety: eight tips for surprise encounters.

• The best binoculars: enjoy watching wildlife from a safe distance