A man is in critical but stable condition Monday night after being attacked by a grizzly bear in Big Sky.
It was a surprise encounter with the bear, according to Morgan Jacobsen, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Information and Education Program Manager, Region Three.
Jacobsen said shortly after 1 p.m. Monday the man was mountain biking, came around a curve on a trail above Ousel Falls on private property, and was attacked.
He was able to make it out to the road and make contact with other people.
The man suffered injuries to his face and back and was airlifted to Billings.He was by himself biking.
Wardens and bear specialists were on the scene and say it does not appear to be a predatory attack, with no indication the bear was chasing the man.
The trail has been closed.
Jacobsen encourages people to be very aware and prepared for encounters with a bear, now that they're fully out of hibernation.
He says carry bear spray and know how to use it, travel in groups, and be aware of your surroundings.
At this point, there is no indication that FWP plans to find or euthanize the bear.
