Two Hikers Injured in Yellowstone Bear Attack Near Old Faithful
Yellowstone National Park officials confirm a bear attack injured two hikers on the Mystic Falls Trail near Old Faithful on May 4, triggering immediate closures of multiple popular areas.
The incident marks the first bear-caused injury in the park in 2026, and comes nearly eight months after the last reported injury in September. The severity of the attack and the fact that one or more bears were involved has alarmed authorities and visitors alike.
Wide Areas of Yellowstone National Park Now Closed
Following the attack, the National Park Service shut down several key trails and backcountry zones to protect visitors and facilitate investigation. Closed areas include:
- Area west of Grand Loop Road from north end of Fountain Flat Drive to Black Sand Basin
- Fairy Falls Trail north of the Grand Prismatic Overlook
- Sentinel Meadows Trail
- Imperial Meadows Trail
- Fairy Creek Trail
- Summit Lake Trail
- Multiple backcountry campsites and fishing along the Firehole River and tributaries
Visitors can still access the Midway Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail up to the overlook, Black Sand Basin, and some portions of fishing along the Firehole River outside the closed zones.
Park Officials Urge Extreme Caution
The National Park Service reminds visitors to stay at least 100 yards away from bears at all times, carry and know how to use bear spray, hike in groups, and avoid hiking during peak grizzly activity periods. Officials emphasize making noise while hiking and advise against running if encountering a bear to reduce risks of attacks.
“Visitors must remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines closely to prevent further injuries,” the National Park Service said in its statement.
Context and Ongoing Investigation
Bear attacks causing injury are rare but serious events in Yellowstone. The last fatal bear attack occurred in 2015 near Lake Village. Park officials are investigating the recent attack and will update the public as more information becomes available.
With the summer hiking season underway, the closures and ongoing threat underscore the need for heightened awareness about wildlife safety in Yellowstone, a major national park drawing visitors nationwide, including from Nevada and across the U.S.
What Visitors Need to Know Right Now
- Expect delayed or redirected hiking plans given extended closures
- Exercise extreme caution on open trails, especially near bear habitats
- Be prepared with bear spray and stay informed via park alerts
- Fishing closures affect the Firehole River and tributaries—check park updates before heading out
- Follow all posted safety guidelines and ranger instructions
This evolving situation remains a top priority for Yellowstone officials as they balance visitor access with safety amid increasing bear activity. Stay tuned to The Nevada Voice and official park sources for further developments today and this week.
