Park officials are investigating a possible bear attack after a male hiker was discovered dead in Glacier National Park. Search and rescue teams found the body at approximately 12:00 PM on Wednesday, according to a press release from the park.
Details of the Discovery
The victim was located about 2.5 miles up the Mt Brown Trail, roughly 50 feet off the path in a densely wooded area with downed timber. Officials reported that his injuries are consistent with those sustained during a bear encounter. Wildlife experts and law enforcement are currently assessing the area for grizzly activity.
The hiker's identity has not yet been released. The National Park Service is waiting 72 hours after notifying next of kin before making the name public.
Trail Closure and Safety Measures
Park staff have closed the trail where the incident occurred while they determine next steps for wildlife behavior monitoring. Visitors are reminded to stay off closed trails for their safety.
The last fatal bear mauling in the area happened in 1998 in Two Medicine Valley. The most recent bear-related injury at the park occurred in August 2025, when a 34-year-old female hiker was charged and attacked by a brown grizzly near Lake Janet. That hiker sustained shoulder and arm injuries but survived after her companion used bear spray to drive the bear away.
According to the park, approximately 1,000 bears live in Glacier National Park, including both black and brown bears. In 2023, around 300 grizzly bears were estimated to inhabit the park.
