When a Bear Attacks...No You Can't Just Hit the Gas

Bear Sightings on Are Rare, But They Do Happen

Bears are generally very shy, reclusive creatures. They don’t want to have anything to do with humans, so will move out of the way if they hear you coming. The majority of bear confrontations occur either because of food (people leaving food around camp, for example) or because someone was hiking very quietly and startled a bear or its offspring. 

Even when riding an electric model, ATVs make a lot of noise. Because of this, it is very unlikely that you will see a bear while riding an ATV in bear country. And, if you do see a bear, it will likely just move out of the way. “Rare” doesn’t mean bear encounters don’t ever happen, though. Bears can sometimes feel threatened by loud noises, and this triggers a defensive attack. 

Watch the video below of a bear charging. The riders are on enduro motorcycles, not ATVs, but it shows that loud noises won’t always keep bears away. You can also find countless firsthand accounts of ATV riders encountering bears in forums and other discussion groups.

Bear Safety Guidelines When Riding an ATV

Don’t make the mistake of thinking you will be able to out-ride a bear if you encounter one. Bears can run at speeds of up to 35 mph. Even if you have a high-speed ATV model, there’s no way you can go faster than a bear on rugged terrain.

Also, don’t think you can shoot a charging bear. It takes a very large caliber bullet to stop a bear. Even if you happen to have this caliber of weapon with you while riding an ATV or UTV, bears can cover thirteen yards in one second. You won’t even have time to get the firearm out, nevertheless aim, before the bear is on you.

Paying attention to the environment you're in is helpful. Whenever you take a break, keep an eye out for signs that might indicate the presence of predatory animals like bears. Tracks are a clear giveaway—look for broad paw prints with large, clawed toes. Scat is another clue; large droppings often contain remnants of berries, fur, or bones, and their freshness can hint at how recently the animal was nearby. Scratched trees are a common marker, as bears claw tree trunks to establish territory, and overturned rocks or logs can indicate foraging behavior.

Flattened grass or depressions might signal a bear’s bed or den, while disturbed vegetation, such as broken branches or trampled paths, can suggest a large animal recently passed through. Bears also have a musky scent that may linger in the area. Auditory cues like growls, grunts, or the sound of breaking branches are additional signs to stay alert. Finally, keep an eye out for partially eaten carcasses or other food remnants that could be a bear’s leftovers. If you notice any of these signs, stay aware, make noise to avoid surprising the animal, and be prepared to retreat safely.

Know Your “Enemy”

Bears come in all shapes, sizes, and demeanors. They don’t all react the same way nor do they have the same exact behaviors, so being informed of their differences can help you be better prepared. There are three main types of bears found in North America: black bears, brown bears (grizzlies), and polar bears, each with distinct physical attributes and behaviors. Black bears are generally smaller, with a straight facial profile and no noticeable shoulder hump. Their coat color can vary from black to brown, cinnamon, or even white in rare cases. They are excellent climbers and tend to avoid confrontation, often fleeing if startled. 

Brown bears, including grizzlies, are larger with a distinctive shoulder hump made of muscle and a concave facial profile. They are more aggressive than black bears, particularly when protecting cubs or food, and are less likely to flee. Brown bears are not as adept at climbing but are powerful runners. Polar bears, the largest of the three, are found in Arctic regions and have white fur, a long neck, and large paws adapted for swimming. They are highly carnivorous and more likely to see humans as prey if food is scarce.

Carry Bear Spray While Riding

Before you even leave, make sure to carry bear spray. It’s the last line of defense in an attack. Bear spray is like pepper spray, but on steroids. Unlike regular pepper spray which only goes 6-12 feet, bear spray makes a huge burst of 20-30 feet in front of you. Even if you are crapping yourself as a bear charges toward you, it’s unlikely that you will miss it. Bear spray is highly effective in preventing and stopping bear attacks. But, to be effective, it must be carried out in a way that makes it accessible.

Be a Responsible Rider 

Part of being a responsible ATV rider is preparing for worst-case scenarios. Even expert riders can find themselves in situations where they must abandon their ATV and head out on foot, such as if they become stuck or experience mechanical issues. 

If you are on foot, then you won’t have a loud ATV to ward off bears in the region, making an encounter much more likely—which is one more reason to have bear spray with you, and be prepared to use it if necessary. Continue to make noise as you travel. If you're with friends, maintain a loud conversation. Maybe even consider playing music on your phone if you're alone.

With the right preparation, knowledge, and tools, you can navigate the backcountry on your ATV with confidence. Understanding bear behavior, carrying bear spray, and staying alert to your surroundings are essential to avoiding dangerous encounters with wildlife, whether it’s a bear or an aggressive moose. By following these tips and consulting expert advice, you can enjoy the thrill of off-road adventures while staying safe. So gear up, stay prepared, and hit the trails knowing you’re ready to explore the woods and beyond with peace of mind.