Two hikers were injured in a bear attack on the Mystic Falls Trail near Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park on Monday, according to park officials. The incident marks the first reported bear-related injury at the park in 2026, prompting temporary closures of several trails and areas west of Grand Loop Road, including parts of the Fairy Fall Trail, Sentinel Meadows, and fishing along the Firehole River.
The National Park Service stated that the attack involved “one or more bears,” though the species has not yet been confirmed. Emergency responders arrived quickly, and the injured hikers were evacuated to a hospital by helicopter. The extent of their injuries has not been released. According to Cowboy State Daily, tourist Craig Lerman encountered one of the victims and called 911 after hearing cries for help. Lerman said, “At first, I thought it was a prank or joke… But when I got close to him, I knew this was a serious matter.” He stayed with the hiker until rescuers arrived.
The attack took place in an area where restrictions had previously been in place due to seasonal bear activity but were lifted two years ago, according to Backpacker. Yellowstone is home to both grizzly and black bears, and officials remind visitors to remain bear-aware: stay at least 100 yards from bears, carry bear spray, hike in groups, and avoid hiking at dusk or dawn.
The last bear attack in the park occurred in September 2025, while the most recent fatal bear incident was in 2015. According to the National Park Service, the average number of bear encounters in Yellowstone is about five per year, despite the park welcoming four to five million visitors annually.
The incident is still under investigation, and more information will be released as it becomes available. Park officials have not indicated when closed areas will reopen.
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