Bear Attack
Canada, Alberta, Banff National Park, Mt. Wilson
On November 29, British climbers Greg Boswell and Nick Bullock were descending in the dark from a reconnaissance of a very difficult mixed route high on the west side of Mt. Wilson, above the Icefields Parkway, when a grizzly bear attacked Boswell, badly biting one of his legs. Boswell fought back until the bear dropped him. The two retreated as quickly as they could, but not as quickly as they would have liked because of darkness and technical terrain (including rappels). Upon reaching the hospital early the next morning, Boswell required numerous stitches for his wounds.
ANALYSIS
This incident was widely reported and more details can be found online, including a first- person account on Bullock’s blog (nickbullockclimber.co.uk). Wildlife officials said the climbers likely stumbled on the bear’s den as it was preparing to enter hibernation. Parks Canada closed the area for the remainder of the winter to protect the bear. Grizzly bears may not go into hibernation until ice season is well under way in the Canadian Rockies. Climbers should consider carrying bear spray as a precaution, at least during approaches. (Source: The Editors.)