A Helicopter Rescue Into the Backcountry
The COS Predator Attack Team responded alongside Squamish RCMP and Squamish Search and Rescue.
The woman received first aid before being airlifted to hospital. Officials said her injuries were non-life-threatening.
But the rescue wasn't the end of the story.
Conservation officers searched the area and found an adult male black bear at the attack site. Officers killed the animal because of public-safety concerns.
There was one important complication: COS initially said it could not confirm that the black bear was the animal responsible for attacking the woman.
The hikers had encountered two bears, and officials initially had not determined whether the attacking animal was a black bear or a grizzly bear.
The Area Was Closed
Following the attack, authorities restricted access to the surrounding backcountry.
The Resort Municipality of Whistler said COS and BC Parks closed trails in the Callaghan Conservancy.
BC Parks subsequently listed the Callaghan Conservancy under a temporary full closure and warned visitors not to enter the affected area. Its advisory described the reason for the closure as a recent grizzly bear incident.
A Normal Hike Changed in Seconds
That's what makes this incident so striking.
Three people were hiking through one of British Columbia’s wilderness areas. Within moments, they had encountered two bears, one person had been attacked and emergency teams were preparing a helicopter rescue.
Fortunately, the woman's injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.
The incident is also a reminder that B.C.’s spectacular backcountry isn't just a destination for hikers. It is wildlife habitat, and encounters can become dangerous with little warning.
Visitors heading into the region should check current BC Parks advisories and trail closures before leaving.
Safety Note
Visitors to bear country should follow current guidance from BC Parks and wildlife authorities regarding bear encounters, trail closures and recommended safety precautions.