Zion National Park is a popular tourist destination for Southern Utah University students and staff. Recently, more recorded black bear sightings have been reported, so it’s important to know how to stay safe.
The bears have been seen at higher elevations along the Kolob Terrace Road, the Lava Point area and Lava Point Campground. These areas are in the park’s northern part and eastern plateau near 8,000 feet elevation. The Hop Valley trailhead also sports bear warning signs.
Zion National Park has altered its camping policy because of the increased sightings and black bear markings. It requires guests to have all food in bear-resistant containers.
According to the National Park Service website, bears’ noses are very sensitive. They can smell food up to 5 miles away. Food items include any food, drinks, toiletries, cosmetics, pet food and bowls, and other high-odor items. If campers improperly store food, it may attract bears to their campsite. The National Park Service explains how to store food and other pungent items on its website properly. Some guidelines are as follows:
— Food should be secured when left unattended.
— Garbage, including empty cans and wrappers, must be stored or disposed of.
— Coolers must be stored and secured away.
— Toiletries must be properly stored.
Guests are asked to keep campgrounds and trails clean. Don’t leave food unattended and pick it up if dropped.
The park and Utah Division of Wildlife Resources work together to track the number of black bears in the area. However, the division tracks them over a wide area, making it hard to get a specific number. They are still determining if the bear population is growing, but with more sightings, it is important to be more careful.
“Black bears are not naturally aggressive but they are strong, powerful animals,” according to the National Park Service. “A bear intent on getting a meal can easily injure someone who gets in its way.”
If a bear is spotted, move away without alerting it. If the bear does notice you, don’t run; instead, hold your ground and speak calmly. If with a group, stick close together to appear bigger. Most black bears will leave when they notice you’re human. Report any sightings or markings to the park rangers.
Author: Maddi Munro
Photo courtesy of Hans Veth
Editor: Chevy Blackburn
Copy Editor: Isaac Allen
outdoors@suunews.net
