Dinosaur is Bear Country

You might assume that bears live only in forests or mountains, however, black bears inhabit much of Dinosaur National Monument. Black bears (Ursus americanus) are curious, highly mobile, and adaptable, but they're not always black. Their fur can be black or brown and range from light to dark.

Most bears avoid people but can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Bears that are aggressive are often startled, conditioned to eating human food, or are protecting their young. Bears particularly get into conflicts with people when they associate people with food sources.

If you see a bear in the monument or have an incident with a bear, please report to monument staff immediately at [phone].

Keep both yourself, other visitors, and the bears safe by following these guidelines and tips while visiting the monument:

 

Food & Food Storage

• Never feed wildlife! Small rodents like ground squirrels are food for bears and can attract bears to areas if there are large populations of human fed rodents. Bears can become very dangerous when they associate people with food.
• Keep a clean camp and store food properly. In most parts of the monument, the best option is to store your food in the trunk of a vehicle. On the river, you should store your food in your metal dry box or a bear-proof cooler. Speak with a park ranger regarding the most up-to-date storage options available.
• Do not leave food or garbage in the open and/or unattended. Place garbage in designated trash bins or in the trunk of your vehicle if it is a pack it in, pack it out campground like Gates of Lodore, Echo Park, Deerlodge Park and Rainbow Park. For those with vehicles without a trunk, two storage lockers have been installed at Gats of Lodore Campground. Lockers will be installed at other sites as funding permits.
• Food preparation and clean up should be done well away from your sleeping quarters and food storage area.
• Do not bring food into or near your sleeping quarters.Clean all pots, pans, and grills thoroughly with unscented biodegradable soap and water to ensure no trace of food aromas. Gray / dish water should be disposed of in a large river or scattered.

 

Preventing an Encounter

• Hike in a group, keep children in sight and close by, make noise.
• While participating in outdoor activities throughout the monument, make noise and ensure your presence is known in the wilderness.
• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Frequently look ahead, off to the sides, and behind you. See the bear before you surprise it!
• Do not approach or startle bears. If you see one while you are in your vehicle, remain in the vehicle.

 

If You See a Bear:

• Back away slowly and leave area.
• Make noise so the bear knows you are there.

 

If a Bear Approaches You:

• Face the bear, back away slowly; do not run.
• Stand tall, appear large, wave arms or jacket.
• Group together, pick up small children.
• Make noise, throw things, try to scare it off.
• Fight back aggressively and use bear spray if the bear attacks.