Hike aware. Be prepared in case you surprise a bear. Hike in groups. Make a good deal of noise. Watch for bear sign.
Conventional wisdom is that black bears are good tree climbers, Grizzlies are not. In 2005 a jogger in the Canadian Rockies decided to climb a tree rather than back away (with 2 friends) from an inquisitive Grizzly. She climbed 51ft. The Grizzly climbed 50ft high after her. Isabelle Dube fell to her death. Do not climb a tree for protection, in any situation.
Animal encounters are your greatest concern. Bears certainly, but mule deer, cougar, elk & even moose have approached hikers. Prickly porcupines may pester you at night, chewing anything you own that is salty with sweat including your boots!
If you need advice on how to hike bear safe, check the following sites:
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