Grizzly bear attacks hiker in surprise encounter; no time to react

An experienced recreationist was hiking at high elevation in Wyoming when he surprised a grizzly bear, prompting an attack that gave him no time to react.

The unidentified victim was hiking Francs Peak west of Meeteetse when the encountered occurred Monday afternoon, according to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

The man was flown by helicopter to a hospital in Billings, Montana, where he received treatment. The extent of his injuries was unknown.

“We wish the individual a full and speedy recovery,” Cody Regional Wildlife Supervisor Corey Class said.

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The press release did not give details about the call for help and whether the victim was hiking alone or with somebody.

The Park County Sheriff’s Office notified the WGFD about the attack, which happened too suddenly for the victim to deploy bear spray.

The WGFD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service were gathering further details Tuesday.

“Based on the information gathered during the initial investigation, Game and Fish plans no management action at this time,” the press release stated. “Game and Fish will continue to monitor bear activity in the area and will make management decisions in the best interest of public safety.”

Generic photo of a grizzly courtesy of the National Park Service.