A 72-year-old woman suffered serious injuries after a grizzly bear attack in B.C.’s South Chilcotin. Officials believe the bear acted to protect its cub.
Senior Hiker Survives Serious Grizzly Bear Attack in B.C.
A peaceful hike through British Columbia’s rugged backcountry quickly turned into a fight for survival after a 72-year-old woman was attacked by a grizzly bear in the South Chilcotin region.
The frightening encounter left the experienced hiker with severe injuries, including deep cuts and a fractured neck. Thankfully, a coordinated rescue effort brought her to safety, and she is now recovering in hospital.
Attack Happened Near Tyaughton Lake
The incident took place on Sunday afternoon in a remote area east of Tyaughton Lake, close to Gold Bridge, about 70 kilometres north of Pemberton.
Pemberton Search and Rescue received a call from the RCMP at around 3:45 p.m. PT after reports that a grizzly bear had attacked a hiker on Pearson Ridge.
According to Search and Rescue president David McKenzie, the woman endured a violent encounter.
“The bear was batting her around during the attack,” he said.
Because the bear could still be nearby, rescue crews waited until conservation officers confirmed the area was safe before moving in.
Rescue Teams Worked Together
Several emergency agencies joined forces to save the injured hiker.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service quickly flew a three-member predator response team to the scene by helicopter. At the same time, members of the B.C. Wildfire Service, who were already working on a nearby wildfire, located the woman and helped rescuers reach her.
Soon after, an air ambulance landed, while paramedics waited at the former Gun Lake Airport to continue medical care.
B.C. Emergency Health Services sent two ground ambulances along with an air ambulance. The woman was then flown to hospital in serious condition.
Injuries Were Severe
McKenzie said the hiker suffered multiple lacerations to her face, arms and neck. She also sustained a C1 fracture, which affects the upper part of the neck and can be life-threatening.
Despite the severity of her injuries, there is encouraging news.
“I understand they are doing well,” McKenzie said, confirming the woman continues to recover.
Officials Believe Mother Bear Was Protecting Cub
After examining the scene, conservation officers concluded the attack was likely defensive rather than predatory.
Investigators believe a female grizzly bear with at least one cub was involved. Officers returned to the area the following day to collect evidence and recover the woman’s personal belongings.
Because the bear appears to have acted in defence of its cub, officials have decided not to remove or destroy the animal. They also are not setting traps in the area.
Instead, warning signs now alert hikers and visitors to use extra caution.
Why This Area Has Frequent Bear Activity
Wildlife biologist Wayne McCrory says the South Chilcotin is one of British Columbia’s most important grizzly bear habitats.
The region offers rich salmon streams, lush valleys and alpine meadows that provide excellent food sources for bears throughout the year.
He also explained that both hikers and bears often use the same trail networks. As a result, surprise encounters can happen, especially where campsites and hiking routes overlap with bear travel corridors.
How Hikers Can Stay Safe
Although grizzly bear attacks remain uncommon, experts say preparation makes a big difference.
McCrory recommends:
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Avoid hiking alone whenever possible.
- Make noise while travelling through dense forest.
- Stay away from trails during early morning and late evening.
- Avoid camping or hiking near active feeding areas.
He added that British Columbians share the wilderness with grizzly bears every year.
“We simply have to do our best to avoid encounters,” he said.
Recovery Continues After Dramatic Rescue
The woman’s survival highlights the quick response from search and rescue crews, conservation officers, paramedics and wildfire personnel, all of whom played an important role in the operation.
Meanwhile, officials continue to remind outdoor enthusiasts to stay alert when travelling through B.C.’s backcountry, especially in regions known for active grizzly bear populations.
