Update on bear attack north of Columbia Falls

Evidence at the scene of a grizzly bear attack near Columbia Falls reveal the bear involved was a female with at least one cub of the year.

The attack occurred around 7 p.m. on Aug 31. The victim was a woman walking with her dog on the Cedar Flats trail complex north of Columbia falls. The woamn sustained significant injuries and was transported to Logan Health Medical Center for treatment.

Investigators also located a cached whitetail deer carcass approximately 100 yards off the trail. Given the presence of the cub, the nearby food resource, and other information, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks specialists have concluded the incident was a surprise defensive encounter. Because of the circumstances and the nature of the attack, no further action will be taken to locate the bear. For public safety, the area will remain closed until further notice. The victim’s dog sustained no injuries and has since been reunited with family.

“This unexpected defensive encounter is truly unfortunate,” said FWP Director, Christy Clark. “Our thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones during this difficult time.”

FWP cannot release the identity or health status of the victim.



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Check out our online trail guides:

• Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com

• Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com

• Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

• Ramble On: A History of Hiking

Services at Logan Pass come to an end after Labor Day

Glacier National Park posted this on their social media today:

With Glacier’s 2026 summer season winding down, a lot of things are changing in the park! Before heading to Glacier, make sure to check for updates, closures, and other information that may impact your visit.

Here are some upcoming changes to be aware of:

🚐The Logan Pass shuttle service is ending for the season. Labor Day (9/7) is the last day of shuttle service up to Logan Pass. If you are planning a trip after September 7 and you are going to be coming to the park in an oversized vehicle or RV, check out our Going-to-the-Sun Road General Info page before arriving to learn about the vehicle size restrictions!

⏱️The three-hour parking limit at Logan Pass will also end on Labor Day (9/7). Be prepared for possible congestion and short-term closures at the Logan Pass parking lot.

💦Water filling stations and flush toilet access at Logan Pass will become unavailable beginning on 9/8. If you are planning on doing any of the hikes in the area, make sure you bring enough water with you. You will not be able to fill up at Logan Pass!

🚽Vault toilets will still be available at Logan Pass until Going-to-the-Sun Road closes for the season.

Check the park’s website or stay tuned here to see what other changes are happening in the park!

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Check out our online trail guides:

• Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com

• Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com

• Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

• Ramble On: A History of Hiking