UPDATE Oct. 14, 2025: Both hikers have been reported to be in stable condition. For more information, you can find an update on the incident here.
Following an incident on a hiking trail northeast of Prince George, B.C., two hikers were hospitalized after a grizzly bear attack last Sunday, as confirmed by authorities.
Responding to the scene at approximately 3 p.m. PT on Sunday, a critical care helicopter was dispatched by B.C. Emergency Health Services. Subsequently, both individuals were airlifted to Prince George Airport and later transferred to the hospital via ground ambulance.
Reports indicate that one of the victims was in critical condition, while the other was deemed stable.
The attack took place in a well-known hiking area within the McGregor Mountain range, according to Eamon McArthur from the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS). This range encompasses various secluded trails accessible via a forest service road about 100 kilometers northeast of Prince George.
As specialists are conducting investigations, McArthur mentioned that trails in the area have been closed off and marked with warning signs.
He emphasized, “Given the remote nature of the location, as long as individuals refrain from hiking in those specific areas, there should be no cause for concern.”
Advising hikers to steer clear of the Pass Lake area, the BCCOS issued a cautionary notice.
While the exact sequence of events is still under review, McArthur highlighted that the hikers were equipped with safety gear.
Hikers are reminded to always venture out in groups, generate noise, and carry essential safety items like noisemakers, bear spray, and a means of communication.
“These tools can be your lifeline in critical situations,” McArthur stressed.
WildSafeBC notes that while grizzly bear attacks are uncommon, they can be fatal, with less than one fatal attack occurring in B.C. on average every five years. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1232221385599449&set=a.300032058818391&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWFLa0IpaOLsD8h7-PxOfax_mYwJd_oR6jlz_h4uX1-X302cg