Denali National Park is one of the most breathtaking places on Earth, a wild expanse of towering peaks, winding rivers, and vast tundra. But with that untamed beauty comes one of Alaska’s most iconic (and potentially dangerous) residents—bears.
Denali is home to both grizzly bears and black bears, and while encounters are rare, it’s essential to be prepared. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just enjoying the sights, here’s what you need to know about bear safety in Denali National Park, Alaska: How to stay safe. Watch this video: Bear Safety
1. Know Your Bears: Grizzlies vs. Black Bears
Before we dive into safety tips, let’s clear up some confusion—Denali has both grizzly and black bears, but they behave differently.
Grizzly Bears: Larger, with a distinctive hump on their shoulders and longer claws. Found mostly in open tundra.
Black Bears: Usually smaller, with no shoulder hump and shorter claws. Found more often in forested areas.
Color is not always a reliable way to tell them apart—black bears can be brown, and grizzlies can be light-colored!
2. Make Noise & Travel in Groups
Bears generally avoid people, but they don’t like being startled.
Talk loudly, sing, clap your hands, or wear bear bells (sold in the main lodge) when hiking, especially in areas with thick brush or limited visibility.
Hike in groups—bears are less likely to approach a group than a solo hiker.
3. Keep Food & Smells Secure
Bears have an excellent sense of smell and are drawn to anything with a scent, not just food.
Use bear-proof food containers (required for backcountry camping in Denali).
Never leave food unattended, keep it in your bear canister, car, or a food storage locker.
Avoid scented items like toothpaste, deodorant, or lotions when camping in bear country.
4. Bear Encounters: What to Do
If you see a bear, stay calm and follow these steps:
If the Bear is Far Away
Stop walking and observe-don’t approach.
Slowly change direction or wait for the bear to move on.
If the Bear Notices You
Don’t run! Running can trigger a chase response.
Speak calmly, wave your arms slowly, and let the bear identify you as human.
If the Bear Approaches
Stand your ground and keep talking.
If it gets too close, use bear spray (more on that below).
5. Bear Spray: Your Best Defense
Denali rangers highly recommend carrying bear spray. It’s an effective deterrent that can stop a charging bear.
Keep it accessible (not in your backpack).
Practice how to use it before you need it.
If a bear charges, spray when it's within 30-40 feet.
6. What to Do in a Bear Attack
While extremely rare, bear attacks do happen. Your response depends on the type of bear and the situation.
If a grizzly bear attacks defensively (you surprised it or got too close to cubs): Play dead. Lay on your stomach with your hands over your neck. If the attack continues, fight back.
If a black bear attacks, fight back immediately—do not play dead. Black bears are more likely to see humans as food.
If a bear stalks you, it sees you as prey—fight back aggressively with anything you have.
7. Bear Safety While Camping
Camping in bear country means taking extra precautions:
Set up camp at least 100 yards from where you cook and store food.
Cook downwind from your tent.
Pack out all trash—even tiny food scraps can attract bears.
8. Know the Park’s Bear Rules
Denali has specific regulations for bear safety:
Backcountry campers must carry bear-proof food containers.
Food storage lockers are provided in some areas, use them.
Stay at least 300 yards away from any bear you see.
Rangers enforce these rules to protect both you and the bears—a bear that gets used to humans often ends up being euthanized.
Watch this video: Bear Safety
Final Thoughts: Respect the Bears, Enjoy the Park
Denali’s bears are wild and unpredictable, but they’re not out to get you.
By following bear safety in Denali National Park, Alaska: How to stay safe, you can enjoy your trip while minimizing the risk of a dangerous encounter.
Have you ever had a bear encounter in Denali? Let me know in the comments!
Stay safe and happy adventuring!