It seems like summer barely started but now bears are bulking up on berries in Grand Teton National Park
As seasons change from summer to fall many bears begin to enter at state of hyperphagia when they increase feeding to gain weight for the winter hibernation.
Hawthorn berries and chokecherries are in abundance this year along the Moose-Wilson Road and rangers at Grand Teton National Park are asking visitors to give bears space and to only view them from their vehicle as they drive along the roadway. Viewing zones are clearly marked with signs.
Park officials note that if bear activity increases, the Moose-Wilson Road may be temporarily closed to the public to protect black and grizzly bears.
They say to follow direction from park staff that will be managing bear viewing along the road; remain in your vehicle and observe bears as you drive slowly and please respect all no-parking zones.
Federal regulations require you stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other wildlife.
Learn more about bears, safe bear viewing, and how to properly use bear spray at go.nps.gov/tetonbears. Please report bear sightings within the park to the nearest visitor center.
