Be Bear Aware On Whatcom Trails
While there are no posted warnings about immediate threats from bears at
Lake Whatcom Park, when you are hiking in the wilderness or at the edge of
any wild area in Washington there is a possibility you could encounter local
wildlife, including Eagles, Coyotes, Cougars and Bears.
Washington has an estimated Black Bear population of 30,000 and while
bears prefer to avoid people, confrontations can happen. The North
Cascades is Black Bear Country and Bear hunting is even allowed in
Whatcom County. There is a 2 bear kill maximum per hunting year so
there are still plenty of bears around.
If you encounter a bear there is no way you can outrun it so don't
even try because it will just cause it to chase you. Bears can charge
you at close distances at 30 miles per hour. It is best to stay calm
and retreat slowly if possible. If an attack appears eminent you may
want to climb a tree at least 33 feet high. The bear could still climb
the tree and pull you out of it but more than likely the bear won't
want to bother if you no longer appear to be a threat.
There are Bear Bells you can buy to wear while you are hiking to warn
unsuspecting bears you are approaching. They can be purchased online
for about $6.00 or possibly in a local outdoor sporting store.
If a bear makes contact and actually attacks you be sure to protect
your neck and face if possible and use any means of defense you can
find including pepper spray, pocket knife or legal firearm. We suggest
you visit the
Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Website for more
information about bears and suggestions about what to do if you should
encounter one in the wild.