Squamish hiker attacked by bear, conservation service investigating
Posted August 20, 2023 1:16 pm.
Last Updated August 20, 2023 1:17 pm.
A woman out on a hike Saturday night in the Squamish neighbourhood of Garibaldi Highlands had a close call, when she was attacked by a black bear along the Coho Trail.
The BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) says the woman came across the bear at about 7 p.m. near the trail’s Second Trestle Bridge.
“As she attempted to retreat by jumping down to one side of the bridge, the bear followed and swatted her,” the service said in a social media post.
The BCCOS says the woman was able to find “a piece of lumber” to defend herself, while a passing cyclist helped her fight the bear off.
“The bear disengaged but continued to follow the pair,” BCCOS said.
The hiker wasn’t seriously injured, the service says, and the team, along with RCMP officers, did a sweep of the area, but didn’t find the bear.
“In consultation with the District of Squamish, Coho Park in Garibaldi Estates and the area north towards Garibaldi Springs are closed and signage has been installed. Conservation Officers remain at the scene today, as efforts to locate the bear continue,” the BCCOS said.
