CYCLING WITH BEARS

Cycling with Bears

Asheville is a biker’s paradise for both off-road and road cycling. Bicycles often trump cars for navigating downtown Asheville, but once you leave the city streets and head into the open road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or one of the many biking trails, a unique challenge emerges—black bears. Despite their intimidating appearance, black bears generally pose little danger unless surprised. Fortunately, bear attacks are extremely rare, but it is essential to be “bear wise.” These wild animals can weigh up to 600 pounds and sprint at speeds over 30 mph. So, LOOK, BUT KEEP YOUR DISTANCE! And never attempt to outrun a bear; like dogs, they have a chase response.

Advice from REI on Bear Encounters

REI co-op offers excellent guidance for dealing with wildlife encounters while biking. According to their advice, cyclists are usually at fault when animals feel threatened. Imagine a black bear hunting for berries or grubs when the flash of sunlight on a bike and the sound of tires suddenly interrupt its foraging. Without a clear escape route, the bear may feel trapped, which no creature enjoys.

In such situations, your job is to stay calm and allow the bear time to retreat. Resist the flight-or-fight urge. While the instinct to pedal away at high speed is strong, it’s important to remember that most bears can outrun a cyclist.

What to Do if You Encounter a Bear

If you encounter a bear, stop immediately. Start talking in a calm, clear voice, apologizing for disturbing it. Get off your bike and position it between you and the bear. Either hold your position or begin backing away slowly. Most black bears will retreat when given the chance.

If the bear rises on its hind legs, it’s trying to get a better sense of its surroundings through sight and smell. Black bears have a sense of smell 100 times more acute than a dog’s. Keep talking calmly and continue backing away. If possible, move uphill to make it easier for the bear to escape.

In rare instances, a bear may exhibit more aggressive behavior, such as lowering its head, laying back its ears, or making a “woofing” sound. This could indicate that you’re between the bear and its cubs. Bluff charges may also occur. Stand your ground, don’t run, and don’t play dead. Keep your bike between you and the bear, make noise, and throw small objects if necessary. If the bear makes contact, fight back vigorously.

Asheville’s Charm

Asheville is known for its unique and vibrant character, earning nicknames like “Weirdest,” “Happiest,” and “Quirkiest Place in America.” It has also been called the “Santa Fe of the East,” “New Age Capital of the World,” “Paris of the South,” and “Beer City USA.” With its rich culture, natural beauty, and fascinating local legends, Asheville is as intriguing as it is inviting. Whether cycling through its scenic trails or exploring its eclectic streets, Asheville offers a unique experience—just don’t forget to stay bear-aware during your adventures!