A 35-year-old Massachusetts man is recovering at St. John’s Hospital after a harrowing encounter with two grizzly bears in Grand Teton National Park. The incident occurred on the afternoon of May 19th on the Signal Mountain Summit Road.

Park rangers and Teton County Search and Rescue responded swiftly, providing immediate medical aid before airlifting the hiker to safety. He is currently in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.

Preliminary investigations suggest the incident was a “surprise encounter,” with one of the bears making contact and injuring the hiker. As a precautionary measure, the Signal Mountain Summit Road and Signal Mountain Trail have been temporarily closed to the public.

“This is a stark reminder that we are in bear country,” stated a park spokesperson. “We urge all visitors to exercise caution and follow bear safety protocols to avoid such incidents.”

Park officials have reiterated the importance of maintaining a clean campsite, storing food and attractants properly, and hiking in groups while making noise to alert bears of human presence. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is also strongly advised.
This incident marks the first reported bear attack in Grand Teton National Park this year. Park officials are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the encounter.

For more information on bear safety, visitors are encouraged to visit the Grand Teton National Park website and the Bear Wise Jackson Hole website.

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