News Release

Update: Two Hikers Injured by Bear on September 24 in Kenai Fjords National Park

Date: September 25, 2025
Contact: Zachary Babb

Incident Update

• The National Park Service, in collaboration with Alaska State Troopers, Alaska State Parks and Alaska Department of Fish & Game, investigated the incident site. No signs of the bear, food cache or cubs were found in a wide sweep of the area.
• The Exit Glacier trails and park boundary gate on Herman Leirer Road will re-open to the public on September 27, 2025 at 8:00 AM.
• Kenai Fjords National Park encourages visitors to take precautions while traveling in bear country:
  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
  • Make your presence known consistently while hiking, groups of 3 or more are noisier and easier for bears to detect.
  • If you do encounter a bear, remain calm and don't run. Talk to the bear, move away slowly, but don't turn your back.
  • Visit our website to learn how stay safe and be bear aware in Kenai Fjords National Park.

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Date of Release: September 25, 2025

Two Hikers Injured by Bear on September 24 in Kenai Fjords National Park

On the evening of Wednesday September 24, 2025, two hikers on the Exit Glacier trail system in Kenai Fjords National Park sustained injuries in a bear incident. They self-transported to the local hospital and were in stable condition.

The Kenai Fjords National Park Superintendent and local Alaska State Troopers responded and closed the trail at the trailhead.  On September 25, 2025, the park closed the park boundary gate at the Resurrection River to limit access to the area while investigation activities are completed. The trails at Exit Glacier and Kenai Fjords National Park gate on Herman Leirer Road will be closed until further notice.

This incident remains under investigation in collaboration with Alaska State Troopers and Alaska Department of Fish and Game. There are no further details to share at this time.

Be bear aware to help avoid surprise bear encounters. Kenai Fjords National Park recommends carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it.