You might expect that when a path through the woods has been cleared and black topped, that people would use the path, and the bears would stay in the woods. Not so! At Katmai, the bears go where they please, and they find the park paths the most convenient route. The second morning of our visit, I was walking to the falls camera platform (about a mile from the lodge). About halfway there , I rounded a curve, and came face-to-face with a moderate sized bear that was coming down the path at a medium trot. I was surprised, and he was surprised. We both stopped at about ten feet distance, and backed up. When we had provided about ten yards of distance, we paused and looked at each other. There was no hint of threat from the bear, but he clearly wanted to continue where he was going. Remembering the ranger's lecture, I took to the woods. When I had walked about ten yards into the woods, the bear seemed relieved, walked slowly down the path, and then resumed his medium trot toward his destination.
You are much more calm (and brave) than I was when I encuntered one on a hiking trail in Breckenridge. I went up the side of the mountain as fast as my little legs could carry me. I later looked at the hill I scurred up and realized it was pretty darn steep, but I didn't even hesitate when I did it.
ReplyDeleteMary, I should emphasize that there were lots and lots of bears there. And many rangers as well. Spotting a bear beyond the rangers 50-100 yard limit was common. They emphasized that while bears are predators, they aren't after humans and just want some space. The rangers suggested that if you ran, the bears might think it fun to chase you, so a steady widening of the space is the best tactic. Also in this case, the bear just wanted to use the walk.
ReplyDelete