GALLATIN COUNTY, Mont. – A hunter’s quick thinking and timely assistance prevented a potential tragedy when a grizzly bear encounter turned dangerous near the Hidden Lakes complex on October 5.
Gallatin County 911 Dispatch received an emergency call at 2:08 p.m. from the hunter reporting the incident. The hunter said he faced a charging sow grizzly bear accompanied by two cubs. Managing to climb a tree after defending himself with a pistol, the hunter sought safety from the wounded bear below.
Authorities responded promptly with a helicopter from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks dispatched to the location. Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue teams in Big Sky also mobilized to offer support. FWP personnel swiftly arrived and dispatched the bear to ensure the hunter’s safety.
The hunter escaped without injury and was safely transported by helicopter. Sheriff Dan Springer emphasized the importance of hunter safety in Montana’s backcountry. “Carry bear spray and hunt in groups if possible. Avoid areas where bear sign is present and always have a communication device to call for help if something goes wrong,” he said.
