Grizzly bears are present in Washington State, though their numbers are very low and confined to specific, remote regions. Their populations experienced significant declines over the last century, leading to their classification as a threatened species in the contiguous United States. Conservation efforts are ongoing to support their presence.
Current Presence and Distribution
Grizzly bears in Washington State are primarily found in two federally designated recovery zones: the North Cascades Ecosystem and the Selkirk Mountains. The North Cascades Ecosystem, a vast and rugged area spanning approximately 9,800 square miles, is home to a population estimated to be fewer than ten individuals. No confirmed evidence of a grizzly has been found within the U.S. portion of this ecosystem since 1996. Public sightings are highly uncommon due to their low numbers and remote habitat.
The Selkirk Mountains, located in the state’s northeastern corner, host a slightly larger, transboundary population that extends into northern Idaho and British Columbia. Approximately 50 to 60 grizzly bears are estimated to reside in the broader Selkirk Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone, with about a dozen of these bears likely living within Washington’s borders. This population primarily occupies the Colville National Forest and surrounding wildlands, including the Salmo-Priest Wilderness area.
Distinguishing Grizzlies from Black Bears
Differentiating between a grizzly bear and a black bear is important for safety and identification. While coat color varies widely for both species, it is not a reliable indicator; both can range from blonde to black. Grizzly bears possess a prominent muscular hump between their shoulders, which black bears lack. This hump is composed of muscles used for digging.
Grizzlies typically have a “dished” or concave facial profile from their eyes to the tip of their nose, along with smaller, more rounded ears. Black bears, in contrast, have a straighter facial profile and larger, more pointed ears. Grizzly bears also have long, relatively straight front claws (two to four inches) adapted for digging, while black bears have shorter, more curved claws (less than two inches) suited for climbing trees.
Conservation and Recovery Efforts
The historical decline of grizzly bears in Washington State was primarily caused by direct killing by humans, including trapping and hunting, which largely decimated populations by the late 1800s. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated the North Cascades Ecosystem as one of six grizzly bear recovery zones in the lower 48 states. Since 1997, recovery plans have been in place, and efforts have recently intensified to restore them.
In April 2024, the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced a decision to reintroduce grizzly bears to the North Cascades. This plan involves releasing three to seven bears annually over five to ten years, aiming for an initial population of 25. The long-term goal is to establish a self-sustaining population of 200 bears within 60 to 100 years. This strategy aims to bolster biodiversity and re-establish a species that distributes plant seeds and helps balance wildlife populations.
Coexisting with Bears
Coexisting with bears in Washington’s wilderness requires specific safety practices. Proper food storage is important; always keep food, garbage, and scented items in bear-resistant containers, locked vehicles, or hung at least ten feet high and four feet from a tree. This prevents bears from associating humans with food sources. Never feed bears, and avoid leaving food accessible in campsites.
When hiking, make noise to avoid surprising a bear, especially in dense vegetation or along noisy streams. Hiking in groups of three or more can deter encounters. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is recommended, keeping it readily accessible. If you encounter a bear, remain calm, identify yourself by talking calmly, and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Slowly back away, giving the bear an escape route, and never approach cubs.