Black bear chases Steamboat hiker and attacks too close to cub

A black bear attacked a hiker in Steamboat Springs on Tuesday, swiping at the hiker and knocking him to the ground.

Around 9:45 a.m. Tuesday, the victim notified Colorado Parks and Wildlife that they had been attacked from behind by a black bear while walking on the trail that connects Walton Creek Road and Mount Werner Circle near the Steamboat Ski Resort. said a press release on Wednesday.

The unidentified hiker noticed a yearling cub on the trail in front of him when they felt an impact from behind and were knocked to the ground, scraping their arm, the release said.

With minimal injuries, the victim was able to complete his walk before receiving first aid, conservationists said Wednesday.

Local wildlife officials set up bear traps and posted signage to alert those hiking the trail of the increased bear activity, but no more bears had been captured in the traps as of Wednesday, according to the release.