04/16/2023
https://www.facebook.com/151418891540140/posts/6861878407160788/?mibextid=cr9u03
"Do I need to carry bear spray even if I don't plan to hike in Yellowstone's backcountry?"
Short answer: Yes!
Wildlife, including bears, roam where they please. This means bears could venture through a parking lot, boardwalk, road, or trail, so it's best to be prepared no matter where you are in the park.
🧐 Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
🧍♀️🧍🧍♂️ Hike in groups of three or more, stay on maintained trails and boardwalks, and make noise.
🐻 Carry bear spray in a readily accessible location (not stored in your backpack), and make sure you know how to use it!
🛑 Maintain a distance of at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk.
📸 Use binoculars, a telescope, or a telephoto lens to get a closer look.
📞 Report bear sightings and encounters to a park ranger immediately!
Learn more about our safety tips while venturing in the park: https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/safety.htm
Photo: Grizzly sow and yearling on a boardwalk near Old Faithful.
