ISLAND PARK, Idaho — An adult male was attacked by a bear while out for an early-morning jog with his dog in Henrys Lake State Park on July 24, according to an announcement by Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG).
The surprise encounter occurred on the Aspen Loop Trail before 8 a.m. IDFG noted that the man sustained injuries but was able to walk back to safety on his own; the dog was uninjured and “followed him out safely.” The jogger was then transported to a hospital in Rexburg to be treated for his injuries. IDFG partnered with Fremont County deputies to secure the scene and investigate the incident, searching by ground and air with use of a drone.
“The site where the attack occurred was discovered, but no bears were found in the area,” IDFG’s announcement states. “Due to the surprise nature of the attack, and no sign of bears in the area, no further actions are being taken at this time.”
IDFG closed the park’s trail system following the attack; it is expected to be closed through Friday, July 31. The rest of the park remains open to visitors. For information on the reopening of trails, call (208) 558-7532.
IDFG did not specify what kind of bear was involved in the attack, but used a photo of a grizzly bear in its news release, and advised learning about bear safety on the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee website.
“This incident serves as a reminder that the entirety of Island Park is bear country,” IDFG stated. “Bears can be anywhere. Assume their presence and always Be Bear Aware.”
IDFG’s tips for staying safe in bear country:
- Always keep a safe distance from wildlife. Never intentionally get close to a bear.
- Stay alert and look for bear activity, especially where visibility or hearing is limited (woods, bushy areas, streams).
- Travel in a group. Groups of people are usually noisier and less likely to surprise bears.
- Make noise by talking or clapping, especially when visibility or hearing are limited.
- Carry bear spray in an accessible place and know how to use it.
- Avoid traveling at night, dawn, or dusk.
- Avoid carcass sites and evidence of carcasses (such as groups of scavenger birds).
- Anyone moving quickly (i.e. mountain biker, trail runner) is at a higher risk of surprising a bear.
