Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the hottest months. Mountainous areas see heavy snowfall during the winter (to the delight
of skiers), while the eastern part of each state can seem downright desertlike much of the
year.
Although many people visit Montana and Wyoming for the abundant wildlife, with so much
human interaction, safety is a real concern. A general rule of thumb is
never
to approach
wildlife, no matter what the situation is. It's just a bad idea, and each year people are hurt
or killed because they ignore this basic rule. Not only are they putting themselves in harm's
way, but they are often precipitating imminent doom for the animal as well. The old adage,
“A fed bear is a dead bear,” can be applied universally to wildlife.
Grizzly bears and black bears live in many parts of Montana and Wyoming, and although
encounters are rare, it is necessary to learn what to do in case it happens to you. It is also
important to know how to avoid the situation in the first place. No method is absolutely
foolproof, but with caution and attentiveness you can avoid most of the common mistakes
that lead to bear encounters.
When out in the backcountry, it's the unexpected bear encounter you really want to
avoid. The best way to do this is to let them know you are present. Make noise in areas of
dense cover and blind spots on hiking or biking trails. Immediately move away from any
animal carcass you come across, as there may be a bear nearby protecting it. Avoid hiking
or biking in the early morning or at dusk, and travel in larger groups; the more of you there
are hiking together, the more likely a bear will sense you and move away. Making noise is
a great way to let bears know you are near, and in most cases they will be long gone before
you have the chance to get a glimpse of them. Be aware that dogs can provoke bears and
bring them right to you. And, of course, never leave food out.
