Grizzly Bear Attack in Grand Teton National Park Leaves Man Seriously Injured

A 35-year-old man from Massachusetts was seriously injured in a grizzly bear attack in western Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park on Sunday afternoon. The incident prompted the closure of Signal Mountain, where the attack occurred.

A grizzly bear attacked and seriously injured a man in western Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park on Sunday afternoon, prompting the closure of a mountain there Monday.

The grizzly was one of two that surprised the 35-year-old man from Massachusetts on Signal Mountain. Rescuers flew the injured man by helicopter to an ambulance that drove him to a nearby hospital.

The man was expected to recover, park officials said in a statement, declining to identify him.

The statement did not detail the man's injuries or say how he encountered the bear. Park officials closed a trail and the road to an overlook atop the 7,700-foot (2,300-meter) mountain.

The attack happened as Grand Teton and nearby Yellowstone National Park begin their busy summer tourist season.

Several such attacks occur each year as the region's grizzly population has grown. Park officials urge people to give bears plenty of space, carry bear spray and avoid leaving out food that might attract bears.

In a separate incident, a Montana grandpa whose jaw was ripped off by a grizzly bear attack in 2021 is making a remarkable recovery. The man, identified only as "Joe," is now able to eat solid foods and speak again. He credits his recovery to the support of his family and friends, as well as the doctors and nurses who cared for him.

"I'm going to be like Rambo," Joe said in a recent interview. "I'm not going to let this stop me."

Joe's story is a reminder that even the most serious injuries can be overcome with the right support and determination.

Back in Grand Teton National Park, the grizzly attack is a reminder of the importance of being aware of your surroundings and taking precautions when hiking in bear country.

"Bears are wild animals and can be unpredictable," said Grand Teton National Park spokeswoman Jackie Skaggs. "We urge visitors to be aware of their surroundings and to take precautions to avoid encounters with bears."

Here are some tips for avoiding bear encounters:

* Make noise while hiking, especially in areas with limited visibility.

* Carry bear spray and know how to use it.

* Store food and other attractants in bear-resistant containers.

* Keep a clean campsite and dispose of garbage properly.

* Hike in groups, especially in areas with known bear activity.

* Avoid surprising bears. If you see a bear, give it plenty of space and leave the area.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of a bear encounter and enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit to Grand Teton National Park.