Anchorage Alerts Hikers After 2 Bear Attacks in a Week

Increased Bear Activity in Anchorage Raises Concerns for Hikers

Authorities in Anchorage, Alaska, are issuing urgent warnings to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to stay away from streams and rivers where salmon are spawning. This advice comes after two separate bear attacks occurred within a week, highlighting the growing risk of encounters with wildlife in the area.

Anchorage is a unique urban-wildlife interface, covering 1,961 square miles (5,079 square kilometers), an area slightly larger than Rhode Island. The city is home to approximately 290,000 people, making it the most populous city in Alaska. Alongside its human residents, Anchorage is also inhabited by a wide variety of wildlife, including about 350 black bears, 65 brown bears, and 1,600 moose.

One Facebook group showcases stunning videos and photos of bears, moose, wolves, and other animals living just a half mile from populated neighborhoods in east Anchorage, near the Chugach Mountains. These images offer a glimpse into the close proximity between urban life and wild habitats.

Precautions During Salmon Season

Every year, wildlife experts recommend that hikers avoid salmon-bearing streams, as these areas attract both bears and humans. “That’s a major food source for these animals as they get ready for hibernation,” said Cory Stantorf, the Anchorage area biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

The recent bear attacks occurred in different parts of the city, including one near the suburb of Eagle River on Saturday. A man was walking on a trail that runs parallel to the south fork of the Eagle River when his unleashed dog encountered a brown bear with a cub. The bear attacked the hiker, who used his entire can of bear spray to defend himself. He had to use the spray twice—once to stop the initial attack and again when the bear returned. Afterward, the sow and her cub disappeared into the forest.

Officials conducted a search using both ground teams and drones but were unable to locate the bear. They believe the animal was protecting its cub and have no plans to kill it. “That’s not something we go after bears for because any sow in that position would have likely done the same,” Stantorf said.

First Attack Occurred Near a Popular Trail

The first incident took place on July 22 when a woman was attacked by a bear on a popular trail in a hillside neighborhood overlooking Anchorage and Cook Inlet. She reported the incident to police, describing the encounter as being with what she believed was a brown bear. The attack happened about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) into the trail near the Stuckagain Heights neighborhood.

Cyndi Wardlow, a regional supervisor for the state Department of Fish and Game, mentioned that it has not yet been determined if the bear was a brown or cinnamon black bear, which can appear similar. Visibility on the trail was low due to tall grass and heavy brush, complicating the investigation.

Staff collected hair and scat samples for analysis, but results could take up to two weeks. Officials are hoping the samples will help identify the type of bear and whether it was male or female. However, without clear information, they did not actively search for the animal after the attack.

Safety Tips for Hikers

As salmon season continues, officials are urging hikers to avoid waterways where bears are likely to be feeding. “There’s so many other places to hike,” said Timothy Gurnett, a Chugach State Park ranger. He highlighted the over 300 miles (483 kilometers) of trails within Chugach State Park, 95% of which lie within the Municipality of Anchorage.

Hikers should remain extra cautious near rivers, as the sound of flowing water can mask footsteps, making it harder for bears to detect people nearby. Carrying an air horn can help alert bears to your presence.

Stantorf emphasized that regardless of where people choose to hike, there is always a chance of encountering wildlife such as bears, moose, wolves, or wolverines. He recommends traveling in groups, making noise, carrying bear spray, avoiding earbuds, keeping pets leashed, and staying alert to surroundings.