The Wind River Range, a prominent Wyoming mountain range, is known for its rugged wilderness and high peaks. Visitors often wonder about the wildlife, particularly grizzly bears. While historically less common, grizzlies are now confirmed present, making awareness and preparedness important for anyone venturing into this remote region.
Grizzly Presence in the Wind River Range
Grizzly bears have expanded their territory into the Wind River Range in recent years, a natural progression from the growing Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) population. This expansion means parts of the Wind River Range, particularly the southern reaches, are now considered occupied grizzly territory. While their numbers are not as high as in the core GYE, their presence is established and increasing. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) estimated over 1,000 grizzlies in the state in 2023, with their distribution continuing to expand into new areas. It is important to distinguish grizzlies from black bears, which are also common, as their behaviors and appropriate responses during an encounter can differ.
Key Areas and Habitat
Grizzly bears prefer habitats offering food sources and secure cover. In the Wind River Range, this includes high-elevation forests, subalpine meadows, and remote wilderness areas. These environments provide access to various food items, such as grasses, sedges, and berries like huckleberry and serviceberry, particularly in late summer and fall. Whitebark pine nuts are also a significant high-calorie food source for grizzlies, especially in late summer and fall, and stands of these trees occur in the Wind River Mountains.
Encounters are more likely in the northern sections of the Wind River Range, given their proximity and connectivity to the established Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem population. While found throughout the range, their density tends to be lower farther south. Understanding these habitats helps visitors know where bears might be more active.
Safety Guidelines for Visitors
Exercising caution and adhering to safety guidelines is important for all visitors due to the presence of bears. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is a primary safety measure. Making noise while hiking, especially in areas with limited visibility, can help prevent surprising a bear, as bears generally prefer to avoid human encounters.
Proper food storage is another important aspect of bear safety. All food, trash, and scented items should be stored in bear-resistant containers, hung at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from any vertical support, or secured in a hard-sided vehicle. Never store food inside tents, as this can attract bears to sleeping areas. Traveling in groups can also reduce the likelihood of an adverse encounter, as more people make more noise and present a larger presence.
If an encounter occurs, remaining calm is important. For a bear that appears stressed or is simply aware of your presence, slowly back away and avoid direct eye contact. If a bear approaches without displaying signs of stress or enters a tent, this can indicate predatory behavior. In such rare instances, acting aggressively by making oneself appear large, yelling, and using bear spray or other deterrents is recommended. In contrast, if a bear makes physical contact and the encounter appears defensive, such as a charge, lying flat on your stomach and protecting your neck can be a suitable response.