Outdoor Adventurers in Colorado Advised to Avoid Bear Encounters in Wildlife Areas to Prevent Hostile Interactions
In the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, where hiking, backpacking, and camping are popular pastimes, it's essential to be aware of the local wildlife, particularly the black bears that call these areas home. With over 1,560 bear activity incidents reported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) in 2025, it's crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety and coexist harmoniously with these magnificent creatures.
Adrian Archuleta, CPW Area 15 Wildlife Manager, emphasizes the importance of proper food storage, using bear boxes, and securing property to keep both campers and bears safe. Here are some key recommendations from CPW to help you navigate bear country:
1. **Stay Alert**: Always keep a keen eye on your surroundings to avoid surprising a bear. 2. **Leash Your Dog**: Keep your furry companion on a leash or rope at all times; never leave them outside unattended, especially at night. 3. **Avoid Feeding Bears**: Never feed bears or leave food accessible, as this attracts bears and increases the risk of conflict. 4. **Secure Your Campsite**: Close windows and lock your vehicles and RVs when you leave or go to sleep to deter bears. 5. **Carry Bear Spray**: Always carry bear spray and know how to use it effectively. Bear spray is an EPA-approved deterrent proven to stop aggressive bear behaviour. 6. **Maintain Distance**: Maintain at least 100 yards distance from bears when hiking; avoid approaching or surprising bears. 7. **Make Noise Regularly**: Make noise regularly while hiking to avoid surprising a bear. 8. **Keep a Clean Site**: Cook and eat at least 100 yards away from your sleeping area to reduce the attractiveness of your campsite to bears. 9. **Do Not Bring Smelly Items in Tents**: Avoid bringing any smelly items, such as food, scented toiletries, candles, or gum, into your tent.
In the event of a bear encounter, remain calm, speak firmly, and slowly back away. If a bear gets within 40 feet, use bear spray as a deterrent. However, in the rare event of a bear attack, do not play dead; fight back with whatever you have available.
CPW also encourages campers, especially in areas like Buckhorn Lakes and the northern Front Range, to report bear sightings, keep campsites clean, and avoid creating conditions that attract wildlife. For more information on bear safety, visit [cpw.state.co.us/living-bears](http://cpw.state.co.us/living-bears).
By respecting wildlife and following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Colorado's beautiful outdoors.
- In northern Colorado, where outdoor-living and home-and-garden meet the wild, it's integral to follow CPW's recommendations for bear safety.
- For those engaging in sports and events in Colorado's picturesque landscapes, being mindful of local wildlife, such as black bears, is essential for maintaining a harmonious lifestyle.
- By adhering to CPW's regulations for secure camping, property management, and proper food storage, one can create an environment that ensures safety for both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.
