Effective yesterday, the park and the Gallatin National Forest lifted emergency area closures temporarily put in place north of Gardiner in the Reese Creek area of the park and the Beattie Gulch area of the national forest. The emergency closures were put into effect on Friday, September 14th, to address human safety concerns after a bear mauling in the forest – evidently an isolated incident (click on “More Information” for the original report). The bear was not injured, which would have caused additional human safety concerns. To help reduce human and bear encounters, hikers and hunters are encouraged to travel and hunt in pairs, carry bear spray, and adhere to food storage orders. Hunters should keep in mind that elk calls can also attract bears. It is also important to remember that bears are attracted to gut piles and food sources, including carcasses, particularly during this time of the year right before they enter hibernation. The Little Trail Creek Trail area closure will remain in effect as there may still be an injured bear in this area. The park and forest encourage visitors, backcountry users, and hunters to check with the Albright Visitor Center or the Backcountry Office in Mammoth Hot Springs or the Gardiner Ranger District Office in Gardiner for the most up to date closure information.
