Why You Should Never Try to Out-Run a Grizzly Bear

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Biking can be a fun way to pass the time and get some exercise in the great outdoors. However, depending on your chosen trail, a joyful ride can quickly become a terrifying scenario. In this viral video, a bicyclist was enjoying a nature path in the woods when a massive grizzly bear began charging him at full speed. 

Luckily, the man eventually got away and was able to lose the bear. However, it’s important to understand the dangers of biking or walking through wooded areas where bears tend to roam.

Let’s take a closer look at the grizzly bear and what to do if you find yourself in a similar situation.

Where are Grizzlies Found?

Grizzly bears are most commonly found in North America, with populations concentrated in the following areas:

• Western Canada
• Alaska
• Montana
• Wyoming
• Idaho

While their natural habitat consists of forests, alpine meadows, and river valleys, human expansion has led to occasional encounters in areas where people hike, camp, and bike.

How Fast Can a Grizzly Bear Run?

Despite their bulky build, grizzlies are shockingly fast. They can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, moving uphill or downhill. To put that into perspective, the average person on a bicycle moves at around 12-15 mph, meaning a grizzly can easily close the gap if it wants to.

How Long Can a Grizzly Bear Run?

Not only are they fast, but grizzlies also have stamina. Unlike big cats that rely on short bursts of speed, grizzlies can maintain a high pace for long distances. This endurance allows them to chase prey—or, in some cases, an unlucky cyclist—for extended periods without tiring quickly.

In fact, a Yellowstone Nature Note published by William E. Kearns stated that he observed and recorded several instances of Grizzly bears covering two miles from anywhere between 25 and 28 miles per hour, proving their stamina. 

Is it Common for Grizzly Bears to Interact with Humans?

Grizzlies usually avoid people in most instances, but encounters can happen, especially in areas where human activity overlaps with their habitat. 

Most interactions occur when a bear feels threatened, is surprised, or is protecting its cubs. However, a few rare cases exist where a grizzly may pursue a human if it mistakes them for prey or associates people with food.

6 Tips on What to Do if You Find Yourself Being Chased by a Grizzly Bear

Knowing how to react could save your life if you ever face a charging grizzly. Here are six critical survival tips:

Tip #1: Don’t Try to Outrun It

Outrunning a grizzly is impossible for a human. Regardless of whether you’re on foot or on a bike, the bear is faster and can sustain its speed longer. Instead of panicking and sprinting away, focus on de-escalating the situation. Running may trigger the bear’s chase instinct, making matters worse.

Tip #2: Ditch the Bike (If Necessary)

While a bike is a better option than running, escaping a bear can still be challenging, especially if you’re on rugged terrain. If the bear closes the distance, consider abandoning the bike and hiding. The grizzly may lose interest in the stationary object. 

Tip #3: Don’t Climb a Tree

Despite popular belief, grizzlies can climb trees like many other bears. A determined bear will have no problem reaching you, so seeking refuge in a tree isn’t a reliable escape strategy. Instead, try to keep a distance between yourself and the charging animal. 

Tip #4: Make Yourself Look Bigger

In the instance the bear hasn’t started to charge but is simply approaching you, it’s essential to stand your ground and make yourself appear larger. Often, raising your arms and speaking in a firm, calm voice can make the grizzly reconsider attacking.

Tip #5: Use Bear Spray

If you’re biking or using a trail where people have spotted bears before, carrying bear spray is crucial. The substance is one of the most effective deterrents against grizzlies and can stop a bear within 30 feet of you. 

Tip #6: Play Dead (Only as a Last Resort)

As a worst-case scenario, if the grizzly bear makes physical contact with you, playing dead may save your life. You’ll want to lay flat on your stomach, cover your neck with your hands, and spread your legs apart to make it harder for the bear to flip you over. Wait several minutes before getting up until you’re sure the bear has left. 

Finally, fighting back against a grizzly will normally make the situation worse.