Spring has officially arrived in Jackson Hole, and with it comes the return of grizzly bears to Grand Teton National Park. Park officials spotted another grizzly this past weekend during an aerial wildlife monitoring flight.
Towards the end of last week, a bear and two cubs were recorded and shared via TikTok on Crag’s Run at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
These sightings mark the beginning of increased bear activity in the region, as adult male grizzlies typically emerge from hibernation in March, followed by females with cubs in April and early May.
The resurgence of grizzly activity is a poignant reminder of the park’s vibrant ecosystem and the importance of coexisting safely with wildlife. In 2024, Teton County experienced a significant rise in human-bear conflicts, with 168 incidents reported, double the long-term average. Contributing factors included unsecured garbage and unattended food items, leading to the unfortunate removal of nine bears from the ecosystem.
To ensure both human and bear safety, park authorities and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department recommend the following precautions:
- Hike in groups and make noise to avoid surprising bears.
- Maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other wildlife.
- Carry EPA-approved bear spray and know how to use it.
- Secure all food, garbage, and scented items.
- Never feed wildlife or leave food unattended.
As we welcome the warmer months, let’s embrace the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance, ensuring a harmonious coexistence in our shared environment.
