Two hikers were injured after a bear attack near Old Faithful. Misryoum reports closures and updated safety guidance for visitors.
A bear attack near one of Yellowstone’s best-known attractions has put a spotlight back on wilderness safety.
Misryoum reports that two hikers were injured on Monday afternoon near Old Faithful, after the pair was attacked while traveling along the Mystic Falls Trail. Park officials said emergency personnel responded to treat the injured hikers, though they did not share details about their condition.
In this context, the location matters: Old Faithful draws heavy foot traffic, and trail access near major landmarks can make it easy for visitors to underestimate how quickly wildlife encounters can happen.
Meanwhile, officials also withheld information about the bear species involved, noting that Yellowstone is home to both grizzly and black bears. The incident is still under investigation, and no further specifics about what happened were released.
As a precaution. Misryoum reports that Yellowstone closed off Biscuit Basin and the Southern Fairy Falls Trailhead to Grand Prismatic Overlook.. Additional closures include trails and a campsite in the affected area. along with any fishing along the Firehole River between the Fairy Falls Trailhead and Biscuit Basin.. Officials said the closures will remain in place until further notice, while Midway Geyser remains open.
This matters because these restrictions are not just about the moment of an incident; they also help parks reduce risk while they assess conditions and keep visitors out of nearby areas where bears may still be present.
Park rangers also offered reminders for how to lower the chances of an encounter. Misryoum reports that visitors are advised to watch for signs of bears and carry bear spray. Officials recommended staying at least 100 yards away from bears at all times.
They also urged hikers to move in groups of at least three and to avoid being out at dawn, dusk, or night, when bears are often more active. If a bear approaches, visitors should make themselves look larger and make noise to discourage the animal, and they should never run.
At the end of the day, wildlife safety is about habits as much as it is about awareness. Misryoum notes that simple steps, including responsible trash disposal, can help limit attractions that may bring bears closer to people.