A California man is recovering after a grizzly bear attack in Montana’s Glacier National Park left him with severe injuries and multiple surgeries, according to statements from the victim and park officials. The incident occurred on May 28 along the popular Grinnell Glacier Trail and has prompted renewed reminders about bear safety in the region.
The hiker, Daniel Crago of San Diego, said the encounter happened suddenly while he was returning from a scenic overlook.
Encounter
Crago, 32, said he was hiking the Grinnell Glacier Trail when he first noticed a bear cub on the path. Moments later, he saw a larger grizzly bear nearby.
He said he attempted to follow common bear safety guidance by alerting the animal to his presence.
“At that point, I did what they kind of teach or train you to do: just alert the bear so you don’t startle it,” Crago said in an interview with CBS 8. “So, I did that. ‘Hey bear! Hey bear!’ And as soon as we looked at each other, it charged at me.”
Attack
Crago said the bear bit his arm and dragged him roughly 20 feet before eventually running off.
He described the moment as sudden and disorienting.
“I looked down and saw my arm just dangling. Blood pouring out. Thought I was gonna die,” he said.
He added that he believed the injury was likely to be fatal at the time of the attack.
Rescue
Other hikers in the area quickly responded, including one who identified himself as a doctor. They helped control the bleeding and stabilize Crago’s condition while emergency services were contacted.
Park officials said he was later airlifted to a hospital in Kalispell, Montana, for emergency treatment.
Crago credited multiple bystanders and medical staff for helping save his life.
Injuries
Doctors confirmed that the bear caused extensive damage to Crago’s forearm, including severe crushing of both bones. However, he said his wrist and elbow were not directly injured.
Since the attack, Crago has undergone three surgeries and is scheduled for additional procedures as part of his recovery.
Costs
Crago said the financial impact of the emergency response and medical treatment has been significant, including a reported $20,000 helicopter evacuation bill after insurance.
He said he has not yet received the full hospital billing but expects additional expenses from surgery and inpatient care.
To help cover costs, he has launched a GoFundMe campaign, stating that the funds are intended to offset medical bills and support his recovery.
Park Response
Glacier National Park confirmed the incident in a June 2 press release, describing it as a “surprise encounter with a grizzly bear.” Officials said environmental conditions, including the sound of rushing water, may have reduced the ability of both the hiker and the bear to detect each other.
Park authorities also reminded visitors to follow standard bear safety practices, including remaining calm, speaking in a steady voice, and slowly backing away without sudden movement.
The Grinnell Glacier Trail has been temporarily closed while officials assess conditions and safety risks.
Safety
Wildlife officials regularly warn hikers in Glacier National Park that grizzly encounters are possible, particularly on remote or heavily trafficked trails where visibility and noise can limit awareness.
The incident has renewed attention on preparedness measures, especially for hikers traveling alone or in areas known for bear activity.
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