06/22/2026
🐻 Bear Safety in Riding Mountain National Park 🐻
Bears are out and very active right now across Riding Mountain National Park, feeding on fresh spring foods like dandelions and other greens. While it can be exciting to see a bear, it is important to stay safe and give wildlife the space they need.
👀 If you see a bear
• Stop and stay calm. Do not run.
If the bear is unaware of you
• Quietly move away
If the bear is aware of you
• Stay calm and speak calmly
• Back away slowly
• Make yourself look bigger and stay in a group
• Pick up small children
• Give the bear space or wait for it to move on
🚴♂️ Cycling and running
• Slow down in dense areas and around corners
• Make noise and stay alert
• Don't wear earbuds to avoid surprise encounters
🔊 Make noise
• Call out, clap, sing or talk loudly
• Be extra cautious in thick vegetation, near streams, and in low visibility
• Bears focused on feeding may not notice you
🐾 Watch for signs
• Tracks, droppings, diggings, torn logs, overturned rocks
• Leave the area if signs are fresh
🐕 Dogs
• Keep dogs leashed and under control
• Dogs can trigger defensive behavior
🧑🤝🧑Travel smart
• Hike in groups
• Keep children close
• Stay on marked trails and travel during daylight
🌼 Enjoy the park and stay bear aware 🐻🌿
