Bear Attack in Yellowstone: Hiker Injured and Released from Hospital

On September 16, 2025, a 29-year-old male hiker sustained significant but non-life-threatening injuries during a bear attack while hiking alone on the Turbid Lake Trail in Yellowstone National Park. The trail is located approximately 2.5 miles from the Pelican Valley Trailhead in the Pelican Valley Bear Management Area, northeast of Mary Bay. The hiker initially believed he encountered a black bear, but evidence suggests it may have been a grizzly bear, as confirmed by the presence of grizzly tracks and a carcass found near the attack site.

Yellowstone National Park hiker injured by bearLibby Western NewsSolo Hiker Injured In Bear Attack At Yellowstone National ParkDaily MontananFirst Bear Attack in 4 Years at Yellowstone National ParkBuckrailHow a ‘robo bear’ can help prevent grizzly conflictsBuckrail

Following the attack, the hiker utilized bear spray in an attempt to deter the animal but was still injured, suffering wounds to his chest and left arm. National Park Service (NPS) medics responded promptly, assisting him in walking back to the trailhead. He was then transported via park ambulance to the Lake Medical Clinic and subsequently airlifted to a nearby hospital for further treatment. The park announced that the hiker has since been released from the hospital.

Solo Hiker Injured In Bear Attack At Yellowstone National Park

In response to the incident, the Turbid Lake Trail has been closed until further notice as a precautionary measure. NPS bear management staff are sweeping the area to ensure no other hikers are present. Due to the nature of the encounter, classified as a defensive reaction by the bear, the park will not take any management action against the animal.

First Bear Attack in 4 Years at Yellowstone National Park

This incident marks the first bear attack resulting in injury in Yellowstone National Park since May 2021, when a grizzly bear injured another solo hiker on the Beaver Ponds Trail in Mammoth Hot Springs. Since 1970, 91% of bear-related injuries in Yellowstone have occurred to individuals hiking alone or with only one partner, highlighting the risks associated with solitary hiking in bear habitats.

Yellowstone National Park hiker injured by bearLibby Western NewsSolo Hiker Injured In Bear Attack At Yellowstone National ParkFirst Bear Attack in 4 Years at Yellowstone National ParkDaily MontananBuckrailHow a ‘robo bear’ can help prevent grizzly conflictsBuckrail

Yellowstone officials continue to emphasize the importance of bear safety for park visitors. Recommendations include carrying bear spray, making noise while hiking, traveling in groups of three or more, and maintaining a distance of at least 100 yards from bears. Hikers are also advised to avoid trails during dawn, dusk, or at night when bear activity is heightened.

Solo Hiker Injured In Bear Attack At Yellowstone National Park

The National Park Service stated, “Because this incident was a defensive reaction by the bear during a surprise encounter, the park will not be taking any management action against the bear.” This reflects the park's policy of allowing bears to remain undisturbed unless they pose a direct threat to human safety.

First Bear Attack in 4 Years at Yellowstone National Park

• “The Turbid Lake Trail is closed until further notice.” — National Park Service

Libby Western News

• “This is the first injury caused by a bear in Yellowstone this year.” — National Park Service

Yellowstone National Park hiker injured by bear

The bear attack serves as a reminder of the inherent risks of hiking in bear country and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to minimize encounters. As investigations continue, park officials remain vigilant in monitoring bear activity and ensuring visitor safety in Yellowstone National Park.

First Bear Attack in 4 Years at Yellowstone National Park