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Summer Travelers Using Care in Yellowstone National Park

By Corrina Pysa

Story Created: Jul 11, 2011 at 10:58 PM MDT

Story Updated: Jul 11, 2011 at 11:28 PM MDT

It’s the world’s first national park, seeing more than 3.5 million visitors in 2010 alone.

As the tragedy of last week’s fatal bear attack lingers, summer travelers continue to flock in.

But they’re enjoying the beauty of Yellowstone with care.

Rolling landscapes, powerful waters, roaming wildlife and over 3,000 square miles of natural wonder to explore.

From the stunning views to unique backcountry hiking, Yellowstone has something to offer for everybody. But as area signs remind visitors, the park isn’t without its dangers and that means people aren’t taking any chances.

“Bear spray. Always packing bear spray.”

Ryan Haag says he found out about the bear attack from friends back in southern California. A reminder of the need for protective measures but not a deterrent from enjoying the park.

That’s the attitude of first time visitor Kurt Reif, too.

“We’re in their area so, unfortunately, it happens.”

But it hasn’t happened since 1986; something Peter Dudley of Madison, Wisconsin notes as he gets ready to head out to the backcountry.

“All the standard procedures. We have bear pepper spray. We’ll make noise hiking, store our food properly.”

And some not-so-standard procedures from other visitors.

“I usually carry a 12 gage shotgun with a double buck,” says Riverton, Wyoming resident Mark Thompson.

For now, closures remain in the Wapiti Lake area; the scene of last week’s deadly attack.

Park officials back the decision to carry bear pepper spray, stay on designated trails, hike in groups of three or more and be alert while enjoying Yellowstone’s magnificent beauty.

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