Two Hikers Injured in Yellowstone Bear Attack Near Old Faithful
Yellowstone National Park officials confirmed that two hikers were injured in a bear attack on May 4 on the popular Mystic Falls Trail near Old Faithful. The attack involved one or more bears and is currently under investigation, according to a National Park Service statement.
This incident marks the first reported bear attack injury in Yellowstone for 2026. The last injury to a visitor caused by a bear occurred in September, while the park’s most recent fatality linked to a bear happened in 2015 near Lake Village.
Park Closes Multiple Trails and Areas After Attack
As a result of the attack, Yellowstone officials have closed several key hiking trails and backcountry locations to protect visitors and allow for investigation. Closed areas include:
- The zone west of Grand Loop Road from the north end of Fountain Flat Drive to Black Sand Basin
- Fairy Falls Trail, north of the Grand Prismatic Overlook
- Sentinel Meadows Trail
- Imperial Meadows Trail
- Fairy Creek Trail
- Summit Lake Trail
- Several backcountry campsites
- Fishing along the Firehole River and its tributaries within the closure boundaries
Open areas include the Midway Geyser Basin, the portion of the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail from Fairy Falls Trailhead to the overlook (but closed beyond), Black Sand Basin, and sections of the Firehole River outside the closure zone that remain open for fishing.
Official Safety Warnings for Park Visitors
The National Park Service urges all visitors to maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards from bears at all times. Park officials recommend carrying and knowing how to use bear spray, staying alert for bears, hiking in groups, making noise on trails, avoiding hiking at dawn or dusk when grizzlies are most active, and never running if encountering a bear.
National Park Service spokesperson: “We are closely monitoring the situation and ask all visitors to adhere to closures and safety protocols. Your vigilance can prevent further injuries.”
Why This Matters Now
Yellowstone remains one of the top outdoor destinations in the United States, especially for Colorado residents and travelers seeking nature adventure. This recent attack and the subsequent closures highlight the ongoing risks of human-wildlife interaction in wild spaces. With hiking season ramping up in the Rockies and Western parks, this serves as a critical reminder to prioritize safety and preparedness.
Park officials are continuing investigations and will update closures or reopen trails as conditions allow. Visitors planning trips to Yellowstone in the coming days should check the official National Park Service website for the latest updates.
What to Watch For
Authorities urge hikers statewide and nationwide visiting parks with bear populations to:
- Plan ahead and stay informed of wildlife activity and trail closures
- Carry bear deterrents and know emergency procedures
- Report any bear sightings or incidents immediately to park rangers
The attack underscores growing concerns over wildlife habituation and visitor safety across popular national parks in the U.S. Meanwhile, Yellowstone officials balance protecting wildlife with maintaining safe public access.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.
