A common question during a bear encounter is whether one can outrun it. This article clarifies the realities of bear speed and provides essential safety information for navigating bear country. Understanding proper responses is more effective than relying on flight.
The Truth About Outrunning a Bear
You generally cannot outrun a bear. Bears possess remarkable speed and agility, far exceeding human capabilities. Black bears can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, while grizzly bears can sprint at 35 to 40 miles per hour. For perspective, the average human sprinting speed is around 14.2 to 18.23 miles per hour, and even world-class sprinters achieve top speeds of about 27.78 miles per hour for short bursts.
Bears are also incredibly agile and can climb trees efficiently, with black bears being particularly adept. Myths suggesting bears are slower downhill or that humans are better climbers are inaccurate; bears maintain speed on varied terrain and climb effectively. Running away from a bear can trigger its natural chase instinct, turning a potentially non-threatening situation into a dangerous pursuit.
Navigating a Bear Encounter
If you encounter a bear, remain calm and avoid running, which can provoke a chase response. Instead, stand your ground, make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms slowly, and speak in a low, calm voice to identify yourself as human, not prey. Pick up any small children immediately and keep them close.
The appropriate response depends on the bear species and its behavior. For black bears, if one approaches or charges, stand your ground, make loud noises, and fight back if attacked. Black bears are often more easily intimidated, and an aggressive defense can deter them. If attacked, concentrate blows on the bear’s face and muzzle.
For grizzly bears, if one charges, stand your ground and talk calmly. Many grizzly charges are bluff charges, where the bear may stop short or veer away. If a grizzly makes contact or attacks, playing dead is often recommended: lie on your stomach, spread your legs to prevent being rolled over, and clasp your hands behind your neck to protect your head and neck. Remain still until you are certain the bear has left the area. However, if the attack persists or is clearly predatory, fighting back vigorously is necessary.
Bear spray is a highly effective last resort for all bear types. It is an aerosol containing capsaicin, designed to temporarily irritate a bear’s eyes, nose, and respiratory system without causing permanent harm. Bear spray has a high success rate, deterring aggressive bears in over 90% of incidents. To use it, remove the safety clip, aim slightly downward to create a cloud in front of the approaching bear, and spray when the bear is within 20 to 60 feet. Continue spraying short bursts until the bear changes direction, then slowly leave the area.
Minimizing Your Risk
Preventing a bear encounter is the safest approach in bear country. Make consistent noise while hiking (talking, clapping, calling out), especially in dense vegetation or near streams. This alerts bears to your presence, giving them time to move away. Hiking in groups also makes you more noticeable.
Proper food storage is another important preventative measure, as bears are drawn to human food by their exceptional sense of smell. Always store food, garbage, and scented items in bear-resistant containers, bear lockers, or hung from a tree away from your campsite. Never leave food unattended or in your tent. Avoid hiking during dawn or dusk, when bears are often most active. Always carry bear spray in an easily accessible location, such as a chest or belt holster, and practice deploying it before heading into the wilderness.