Bear on the Boardwalk: Tourists Clear Path for Unexpected Yellowstone Visitor
A grizzly bear caused tourists to quickly move aside when it appeared on a boardwalk in Yellowstone National Park. The unexpected encounter happened near the Grand Prismatic Spring in the Midway Geyser Basin.
One visitor described the close encounter: “My wife, son, and I happened upon a big bear at the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone that wanted to follow us on to the boardwalk for a good ways before he leaped over the railing and sauntered off. No injuries but he was way closer than the recommended safe distance. About 15-20 feet from my wife at first.”
No interest
Fortunately, the bear showed no interest in the people nearby, writes Unofficial Networks in their recent report. The animal seemed more concerned with staying dry while crossing the river before jumping over the railing and continuing on its way.
Yellowstone has over 15 miles of boardwalks that allow visitors to safely view the park’s special thermal areas while protecting the fragile environment underneath. These walkways are meant for people, but sometimes the park’s wildlife uses them too.
Stay on boardwalks
Park rules require visitors to stay on boardwalks in thermal areas for safety and to protect the landscape. However, if you need to avoid a dangerous encounter with a bear, it’s okay to step off the path.
Yellowstone’s safety guidelines remind visitors to keep at least 100 yards from bears, carry bear spray, hike in groups, and make noise by occasionally yelling “Hey bear!” to alert bears of your presence. Most importantly, never feed bears or leave food unattended, even briefly.
