Full Breakdown
Teen Hikers Injured in Black Bear Encounter on Mount Si
6/18/2026, 12:59:22 AM
Incident Overview
On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, three teenage hikers on Mount Si’s main trail, about 2.7 miles from the trailhead, encountered a black bear that charged and swiped at one teen. The injured teen, described as “semi-ambulatory,” was evacuated by King County Search and Rescue on an ATV and taken to a hospital with minor injuries. A second teen twisted an ankle while fleeing. At 2:35 p.m., King County Sheriff’s Office, Eastside Fire & Rescue, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) closed all Mount Si trails and began a search for the bear.
Context & Statistics
Washington hosts roughly 22,000 black bears. Since 1970 the state has recorded about 20 bear-related injuries and one fatal encounter in 1974, the latest injury before this event occurring in 2022. Seasonal spikes in bear activity have prompted temporary closures of nearby campgrounds and trails, leading officials to stress proper food storage and avoidance of habituating bears.
Agency Actions & Statements
The King County Sheriff’s Office noted that bear attacks are rare, especially with large, noisy groups. WDFW deployed armed officers to locate the animal and reminded hikers to secure food, garbage, and scented items. Eastside Fire & Rescue spokesperson Catherine Imboden said injuries were “significant” but not life-threatening and urged preparedness. King County Search and Rescue thanked partners and highlighted that the hikers’ group travel, communication devices, and cooperation aided the rescue.
Eyewitness & Conflicting Details
Witnesses heard “a lot of screaming” as the bear chased the hikers. One teen was scratched and later rejoined the group; another fell in brush, twisting an ankle. A separate party reported a bear following them for miles. Sources differ on the encounter’s time (reports range from 1 p.m. to 2:35 p.m.) and whether the second teen’s injuries stemmed from the bear or the fall. Officials have not confirmed that the bear was a mother protecting cubs.
Implications & Next Steps
Mount Si trails stay closed while the bear search continues; nearby Little Si and Mount Teneriffe trails are also closed “until further notice.” Agencies advise hikers to travel in groups, make noise, carry bear spray, and store attractants securely. The closures aim to prevent further encounters and protect public safety.
Verbatim Quotes
- “His injuries were very minor, but he was of course terrified,” — Deputy Peter Linde, King County Sheriff’s Office
- “They’re not life-threatening injuries, but they are significant, and obviously, they weren’t able to hike down by themselves,” — Catherine Imboden, Eastside Fire & Rescue
- “The bear attacked one of the individuals, another was injured while fleeing, and the rest of the group scattered.” — Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife statement
- “We are grateful to have played a role in bringing these individuals home,” — King County Search and Rescue
