Black bears aren't a typical sight when you're hitting the slopes, but for the second time this season, a visitor to a Northern California ski resort has a come into contact with one on a downhill run. Earlier this season, a bear crossed in front of skiers on its way to its mother. Now, a bear was recently seen frolicking in the snow with a snowboarder and skiers all around. There must be something in the snow!
A clip from KCRA News shows the incident unfold at Heavenly Ski Resort.
According to a post on X from KGO-TV San Francisco reporter Dion Lim, a snowboarder and her family saw the bear last Friday and tried to give it space.
But a skier wasn't as wise as Danielle and her family. Instead of leaving the bear in peace, the skier attempted to approach the bear. From the video, it looked like they were even following the large predator. Thankfully, the bear ran away, putting distance between itself and the skier—something the skier should have done in the first place.
Black bears, who are more of a cinnamon color, are well-known in the South Lake Tahoe area, often seen walking around between homes. While it's not uncommon to see them wandering around, they are a rare site on the slopes. They generally avoid running into humans, even though it is the bears' natural habitat.
No matter the situation, people need to stay away from wildlife, for their safety and the safety of the bears. Black bears don't normally attack, but will if they feel threatened. According to Keep Tahoe Bears Wild, you should increase the distance between yourself and a bear whenever possible. But, please—don't run or act aggressive. You can stand your ground if you need to, remaining calm and talking to the bear. The bear advocacy group suggests that if a bear approaches you, you make yourself appear larger, waving your hands in the air or spreading your jacket out wide.
You can read our full guide on what to do if you see a bear, as told by a park ranger.
