Woman attacked by bear near Whistler airlifted to hospital
A hiker was injured Friday evening in backcountry near Conflict Lake. Conservation officers dispatched one of two bears encountered.
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A woman was attacked by a bear while hiking in backcountry near Conflict Lake, in the Callaghan Conservancy near Whistler, on Friday, September 4, around 5 p.m. The BC Conservation Officers Service said a group of three hikers encountered two bears on the trail. One of the bears attacked the woman before disengaging.
The woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries. First aid was administered on site, and she was transported by helicopter to hospital. The responding agencies included the Conservation Officers Service Predator Attack Team, Squamish RCMP, and Squamish Search and Rescue.
After a safety sweep of the area, conservation officers found and dispatched one adult bear due to safety concerns. The species—whether black bear or grizzly—has not been confirmed. Conflict Lake trail remains closed. The trail signage is being updated in partnership with BC Parks.
Conservation officers are continuing their investigation and will release an update once they are in a position to do so. The woman's identity and specific medical condition beyond the non-life-threatening classification have not been disclosed.
The facts
When and where did the bear attack occur?
A woman was attacked by a bear on Friday, September 4, 2026, around 5 p.m. while hiking in backcountry near Conflict Lake in the Callaghan Conservancy near Whistler.
How many bears were involved?
A group of three hikers encountered two bears on the trail, and one of them attacked the woman.
What injuries did the woman sustain?
The woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was airlifted by helicopter to hospital after receiving first aid on site.
What happened to the bear after the attack?
After a safety sweep of the area, conservation officers found and dispatched one adult bear due to safety concerns, though the species has not been confirmed.
