September is Bear Awareness Month

As the weather starts to cool off and the summer crowds thin out, many of us locals near Glacier National Park cherish this time of year to explore in peace. But September isn’t just about crisp mountain air and stunning fall foliage – it’s also Bear Awareness Month, and if you plan on hitting the trails, it’s crucial to be bear aware.

Why September?

Bears are particularly active during this time of year. As the days grow shorter and winter edges closer, both grizzlies and black bears are working overtime to fatten up for hibernation. You’ll often hear it referred to as “hyperphagia,” which is just a fancy term for when bears go into a feeding frenzy. They’ll spend up to 20 hours a day hunting for berries, roots, insects, and small animals, packing on as much fat as possible to get them through the long winter.

That’s why it’s more important than ever to stay on your toes when you’re out exploring the park this month.

Trails to Watch Out For

We all have our favorite hikes in Glacier – from the classic Avalanche Lake trail to the breathtaking Grinnell Glacier hike. But those are also bear hotspots in the fall, especially areas around lakes, meadows, and berry patches. If you’re heading into bear country (which, let’s be honest, is basically all of Glacier), make sure to do the following:

Make Noise: Don’t surprise a bear! Clap, shout, or sing. You don’t have to go overboard, but periodic noise lets them know you’re coming.
Travel in Groups: Solo hikes are great for introspection, but in September, it’s smarter to have a hiking buddy or two. Bears are less likely to approach larger groups.
Carry Bear Spray: It’s a must. Keep it on your belt or backpack strap for quick access – and know how to use it! Practice with a test can before heading out. You can grab it at any of the outdoor stores in Kalispell or Columbia Falls.
Check the Bear Activity Reports: The park rangers do a solid job updating bear sightings and closures. Before you head out, check the Glacier National Park website or stop by a visitor center for the latest.

Bears and the Backcountry

For those of you venturing deeper into the park, like on multi-day backcountry treks, the stakes are even higher. September is when you really need to lock down those bear safety protocols. Store your food properly using bear-resistant containers or hanging methods, and make sure you’re cooking and storing food at least 100 yards from where you sleep. The park has established bear poles at most backcountry campsites, and trust me, you’ll want to use them.

Bear Encounters – What to Do

It happens. You might see a bear, and that’s one of the reasons we love Glacier – the wildlife is incredible. But it’s key to keep your cool if you do encounter one.

If the bear is far away, back away slowly and give it space. Don’t try to get closer for that Instagram shot, no matter how good your zoom is.
If the bear is close, stay calm, talk to the bear in a firm voice, and slowly back away without turning your back. If it approaches, stand your ground and prepare your bear spray. Most bears don’t want anything to do with humans, but they might feel threatened if you surprise them.
In the rare case of a charge, that’s when your bear spray comes into play. Aim low and spray a cloud between you and the bear.

Enjoying the Season

Despite the heightened bear activity, September is one of the best months to experience Glacier National Park. The cooler temps make for great hiking conditions, and the fall colors are breathtaking. And with the summer rush behind us, you’ll often find yourself enjoying some of the park’s more popular spots without the crowds. Just remember, while we share these beautiful mountains with bears, a little awareness and respect go a long way in keeping everyone safe.

So grab your pack, lace up your boots, and get out there – just don’t forget your bear spray and a healthy dose of caution!

Stay safe and see you on the trails!