MAMA BEAR ATTACK, WASHINGTON STATE — Authorities have confirmed that at least two high school students were injured after a sudden and frightening encounter with a black bear and her cubs during a hiking trip on the Mount Si trail, in what officials describe as a rare but serious wildlife attack involving a protective “mama bear.”
The incident occurred on Tuesday along the popular Mount Si hiking route in the Mount Si Natural Resources Conservation Area, approximately 2.7 miles into the trail, where a group of students reportedly encountered a mother bear with cubs. According to officials, the bear suddenly charged the group, swiping at one of the teenagers and causing panic among the hikers.
Emergency responders confirmed that at least one student suffered scratches after being struck by the bear, while another was injured while attempting to escape the scene. Authorities later clarified that a second teen also sustained injuries, though the full extent remains under evaluation.
In a separate development, another group of hikers on the same trail reported being followed closely by a black bear for several miles, raising additional safety concerns in the area. Wildlife officials have since closed all Mount Si trails while efforts continue to locate and monitor the animal.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has urged hikers to remain vigilant, emphasizing that while black bears typically avoid humans, encounters can become dangerous when a mother is protecting her cubs. Officials advise recreators to make noise while hiking, avoid sudden movements, and carry bear spray in high-risk wilderness areas.
The shocking encounter has sparked concern among outdoor enthusiasts, as Mount Si remains one of Washington’s most frequently visited hiking destinations. Despite the alarm, officials noted that serious bear attacks remain extremely rare in the region, with only a small number of recorded incidents over the past several decades.
As investigations continue, the injured students are reported to be in stable condition and recovering.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the trail until further notice as wildlife teams continue efforts to locate the bear.
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