WEST YELLOWSTONE, Mont. — A woman was found dead from an apparent grizzly bear encounter Saturday morning near West Yellowstone, Montana, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP).
A hiker reported a deceased woman on a trail near Custer Gallatin National Forest’s Buttermilk area, about eight miles west of West Yellowstone on Saturday around 8 a.m., an FWP press release said. FWP wardens and bear specialists determined that “the woman had wounds consistent with a bear attack. They also found tracks from an adult grizzly bear and at least one cub near the site,” the release said.
FWP believes the hiker was alone at the time of the attack, and no bear spray or guns were found near the body. FWP and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are still investigating this incident. No bears have been captured thus far.
As a safety precaution, Custer Gallatin National Forest has issued an emergency closure of the area through Aug. 25, warning residents and visitors about bear activity.
“FWP staff express sincere condolences to the family and friends of the hiker who was killed,” the press release said.
See Buckrail‘s tips for recreating in bear country for safety reminders. Experts advise against hiking in the early morning, late in the day and after dark, especially alone.
