Spring might still feel a little theoretical in Jackson Hole, but Yellowstone just received one of its most reliable seasonal signals:
The first grizzly bear of 2026 has officially been spotted.
According to Yellowstone National Park biologists, the bear was observed March 9 in the northern part of the park, scavenging on a bull bison carcass in the backcountry.
TO BE CLEAR: The bears are awake… and immediately looking for snacks.
Park officials say the sighting marks the unofficial start of grizzly season in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
A Reliable Sign That Winter Is Ending
Grizzlies typically emerge from hibernation in early March, starting with large males. Females with cubs usually don’t appear until April or early May.
The timing of this year’s first sighting is right in line with recent seasons:
| Year | First Reported Grizzly Sighting |
|---|---|
| 2026 | March 9 |
| 2025 | March 14 |
| 2024 | March 3 |
| 2023 | March 7 |
| 2022 | March 7 |
Once they wake up, bears are immediately on the hunt for calories, and winter-killed elk and bison often top the menu.
That’s exactly what biologists witnessed this week.
And yes, a 600-pound grizzly guarding a bison carcass is about as intimidating as it sounds.
Yellowstone Is Always Bear Country
Park officials emphasize something many visitors forget: All of Yellowstone is bear country.
That includes everything from remote backcountry trails to boardwalks around Old Faithful and busy parking lots.
As bears emerge from hibernation and begin feeding, they can be particularly defensive around carcasses, which makes spring one of the more sensitive times for encounters.
Bear Safety Basics
Yellowstone officials are reminding visitors and locals heading into the park to follow standard bear safety guidelines:
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it
• Stay alert and make noise while hiking
• Travel in groups of three or more when possible
• Avoid hiking at dawn, dusk, or at night
• Never run from a bear
• Stay at least 100 yards away from grizzlies and black bears
Bear spray has proven extremely effective at deterring defensive bears and reducing situations where animals must be killed in self-defense.
And while firearms are allowed in the park, discharging a firearm is illegal for visitors.
The Annual Reminder
For locals in Jackson Hole, the first grizzly sighting is basically Yellowstone’s version of the groundhog seeing its shadow, except with claws and teeth.
It’s a reminder that winter is loosening its grip… and that the wild heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is waking up again.
So if you’re heading north anytime soon:
Bring your bear spray and maybe skip the idea of walking up to that “big fluffy dog” near a bison carcass.
AntlersArch founder and the voice behind Teton Tattle.
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- Jason Ziernicki
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