Grizzly bear killed after encounter with hunter in Gallatin Range

BIG SKY – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff responded to a reported encounter between a hunter and a grizzly bear on Saturday.

The hunter was in the backcountry south of Hidden Lakes in the Gallatin Range when he saw a grizzly bear and two large cubs at close range. The hunter climbed a tree to avoid the bear, but the bear charged at the hunter. The hunter shot and injured the bear from the tree. The hunter stayed in the tree while the injured bear remained nearby.

The hunter called 911 and reported his location. FWP grizzly bear specialists, game wardens and a pilot responded via helicopte...