Glacier Hiker Killed in Bear Encounter; 1st Death in 25 Years

Search and rescue crews in Glacier National Park have recovered the body of a missing hiker following what now appears to be a fatal bear encounter, the first in the park in more than 25-years.

National Park officials say the victim was discovered Wednesday afternoon about two and a half miles up the Mt. Brown Trail. The body was found approximately 50 feet off the path in a densely wooded area.

While an investigation is ongoing, authorities confirmed that the injuries sustained are consistent with a bear attack. This marks the first bear-related fatality in Glacier National Park since 1998.

As a precaution, the Mt. Brown Trail and several connecting routes, including the paths to Snyder Lake and the Sperry Chalet, remain closed. Wildlife experts are currently monitoring the area for bear activity to ensure there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The identity of the hiker is being withheld for 72 hours to allow for family notification. Visitors are urged to respect all trail closures and remain vigilant while recreating in bear country.

Safety warnings are in effect today at Yellowstone National Park following another dangerous encounter with a grizzly earlier this week.

Park officials are now confirming that two male hikers—ages 15 and 28—were airlifted to a hospital after being injured by a bear northwest of the Old Faithful area earlier this week.

Park investigators believe the incident involved a female grizzly protecting her cubs. As a result, several backcountry campsites, fishing spots, and trails in that area remain strictly closed to the public.

While the famous geyser basin boardwalks stay open, rangers are urging visitors to stay out of marked closure zones. Officials remind everyone that Yellowstone is bear country—always carry bear spray, stay alert, and give wildlife plenty of space.

     For a full list of trail closures, visit the official park website.