BE BEAR AWARE!

This area is home to grizzly bears, black bears, and mountain lions.

For your safety and the safety of others, we strongly recommend carrying bear spray during this event (or anytime riding, hiking, camping, or engaging in similar activities in the area).

Stay vocal — sing, cheer, or chat with those around you. This is particularly crucial when approaching blind corners, whether climbing uphill or descending downhill. Bear encounters often happen when a biker rounds a blind corner at high speed, startling both the bear and the rider. While bears often retreat, they may not if cubs or food are nearby.

ENCOUNTERING A BEAR


Many people will not encounter a bear, but it can certainly happen.

Here are recommendations from the National Forest Service, taken from the NFS site

  • DO NOT RUN.

  • Remain calm.

  • Group together

  • Continue to face the bear and back away slowly, talking calmly to identify yourself as a human.

  • If the bear continues to approach, try to scare it away by making yourself as large and imposing as possible by stretching your arms overhead and making loud noises.

  • Carry and know how to use bear spray, which is available at many outdoor retailers and can be used to deter a charging bear.

FOOD STORAGE

ATTENTION TO CAMPERS - but also practical bear knowledge for anyone who recreates in bear country.

  • Keep a clean campsite.

  • Do not store food or any scented items in a tent, including clothing with food residues.

  • Do not leave food unattended at a campsite or in your vehicle.

  • Use bear-resistant food lockers and dumpsters where provided or bring your own.

  • Clean utensils and food prep area thoroughly after cooking.

  • Do not store garbage at the site. Use a designated bear-proof garbage/dumpster.

SUGGESTED BEAR SPRAY RETAILERS

MISSOULA
Missoula Bicycle Works
Bob Wards
Scheels
Costco
REI
Trailhead
Sportsman’s Warehouse
ACE HARDWARE
BearClawHolsters - bear spray bike mounts -
@ Missoula Bicycle Works in Missoula

SEELEY LAKE
Ace Hardware

OVANDO
Blackfoot Angler’s (downtown)