Woman Survives Attack by Bear with Cub During Terrifying Hike

A woman hiking in southeast Alaska survived a frightening bear attack after authorities say she unexpectedly encountered an animal believed to be traveling with a cub.

The attack happened Monday afternoon on the Jones Point Trail near Haines, Alaska, a community surrounded by rugged wilderness and heavy bear activity.

According to local reports, the hiker was on the trail around 4 p.m. when she was attacked.

Authorities have not publicly identified the woman.

Despite the terrifying encounter, she managed to get away and suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening.

The attack was reported later that evening, triggering an investigation involving the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and law enforcement.

Anthony Crupi, a regional supervisor with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, said the incident appears to have been a surprise encounter rather than a predatory attack.

“It seems like the victim did all the right things,” Crupi told KTUU, adding that she tried to get off the trail and protect herself.

That distinction is important.

Wildlife officials say bears involved in sudden close-range encounters may react defensively, especially if a cub is nearby. A mother bear can become highly protective when she believes her young are threatened.

Officials believe that may have been a factor in this attack.

The bear involved was reportedly believed to be with a cub, though authorities were still working to identify the exact animal.

Crupi said that when a bear has injured a person, wildlife officials gather as much information as possible before deciding what action to take.

That can include examining the animal’s behavior, the location of the encounter, the circumstances surrounding the attack and, in some cases, DNA evidence.

Authorities then determine whether any management action is necessary.

As of the initial reports, it was unclear whether the bear had been located.

The timing of the attack also comes during one of the busiest feeding periods of the year for Alaska’s bears.

In the fall, bears enter a phase known as hyperphagia, when they spend much of their time eating in preparation for winter.

The National Park Service says bears can become especially active during this period as they search constantly for food and try to gain enough weight before hibernation.

Near Haines, that can mean bears gathering around rivers and streams where salmon are abundant.

Officials said bears have been congregating around the Chilkat River area as they feed.

While most bear encounters do not end in an attack, wildlife experts continue to urge hikers to take precautions.

The National Park Service advises people in bear country to stay calm, avoid running and travel in groups when possible.

If a bear is encountered, officials also stress that every situation is different and there is no single response that guarantees safety.

In this case, authorities say the woman appears to have reacted appropriately — and it may have helped save her life.