Our neighbour told us of walking trails nearby so we start the long weekend, walking to Eagle River Nature Park 
Snow is melted on most of the mountains, then there is this one. I wonder if it will melt while we are still in the area.
Check the trail map, off we trot towards the river.
A few feet into the trail … “Ensure the bear is aware you are there”
Previous research reveals …
Black Bears: If you are attacked by a black bear, DO NOT PLAY DEAD
- Stand your ground.
- If it doesn’t notice you, slowly retreat.
- Never run – it can trigger an attack.
- Don’t climb a tree – black bears can climb trees really well.
- Don’t make eye contact – they may see it as a threat.
- Use bear spray to ward off the attack if it gets close.
- Get loud and aggressive if a black bear approaches.
Brown/Grizzly Bears: If you are attacked by a brown/grizzly bear, PLAY DEAD
- Leave your back pack on (great we don’t have one)
- Lay on your stomach
- Clasp your hands behind your neck
- Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over
- Remain still until the bear leaves the area
Based on the sign and the above if we encounter a bear we do not play dead. Still have to buy bear stray.
It does look like ideal bear country, doesn’t help that some rocks resemble bears. Yep, a little frightened. We did encounter an other couple walking ahead of us, we affectionately called them “Bear Bait”. Wish I knew if I was concerned for nothing.
Looks like a beaver worked hard whittling down this stump.
Mother Nature does nice work
Made it out alive!! We do deserve today’s reward!
