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Where to Rent Bear Spray in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park has stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Among the later that roam the park are black and grizzly bears, making it essential for hikers and campers to prioritize safety. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself in bear country is by carrying a can of bear spray, a non-lethal deterrent proven to prevent dangerous encounters.
Grizzly bears and black bears can be found in a number of different National Parks throughout the United States and Canada. Parks include Yellowstone National Park and North Cascades National Park in the U.S., Banff NP, Jasper NP, and Glacier NP in Canada.
In this guide, you’ll learn why bear spray is a must, where to rent it in Glacier National Park, how to use it effectively, important hiking safety tips, and even highlight the best spots for bear sightings.
If all of that sounds good to you, let’s get into it!
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Bear Spray can be rented throughout the park at various visitor centers, purchased at gift shops, and purchased in neighboring communities outside of the park.
I have been carrying bear spray for many years and, thankfully, have never had to use it. However, I would never want to be caught without it.
Quick Travel Guide to Glacier National Park
Before you can start packing for your trip to Glacier National Park in August, here are some quick links for you to help with trip planning.
- Getting There: The two airports that are popular for flying into include Whitefish, MT and Missoula, MT. Find affordable flights here.
- Getting Around: You will need a vehicle to get around. Many car rentals offer a bear spray rental! Book a car here!
- How Long to Visit: A worthy trip to Glacier can be anywhere from three days to a week! However long you’re visiting, you’ll have a great time!
- Where to Stay: There are 13 front country campgrounds in Glacier National Park that you can reserve on recreation.gov. Otherwise, you can book a hotel here!
- Getting Into the Park: You will need an America the Beautiful Pass to enter Glacier National Park, which you can purchase here. In August, you will additionally need a vehicle reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road via the West Entrance, Many Glacier, and North Fork.
Let’s get into!
Why You Need Bear Spray in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a prime bear country, with both grizzlies and black bears commonly spotted along trails and near campgrounds. These bears are generally shy and will avoid humans, but if surprised or threatened, they can become aggressive. Bear spray is a tool for anyone heading into the backcountry because it helps stop a charging and aggressive bear without causing long-term harm to the animal.
Bear spray works by creating a cloud of potent capsaicin (one of the active ingredients in hot peppers) that irritates the bear’s eyes, nose, and lungs, deterring it from continuing its approach. Unlike firearms, which can be deadly, bear spray is a non-lethal, humane solution designed to give you and the bear a chance to retreat.
What is Bear Spray?
Bear spray is an essential tool for bear safety in the wilderness, specifically designed to deter aggressive bears and prevent dangerous encounters. It’s a specialized form of aerosol pepper spray that creates a powerful, wide-reaching cloud of capsaicin, the active ingredient derived from hot peppers. When used properly, bear spray is considered the most effective deterrent against a charging bear, as it temporarily incapacitates the bear by causing intense irritation to its eyes, nose, and lungs, giving you a chance to safely retreat.
Unlike regular pepper spray, which is intended for close-range self-defense against humans, bear spray is formulated for use at longer distances (up to 30 feet or more) and disperses in a broader pattern, increasing its effectiveness in the event of a bear encounter. Brands like Counter Assault are known for producing high-quality bear sprays that are field-tested in real-world bear encounters, making them a popular choice among hikers and campers in bear country.
Whether you’re exploring Glacier National Park or any other bear habitat, bear spray is your best line of defense, providing a non-lethal means of protecting both yourself and the bear.
Where to Rent Bear Spray Around Glacier National Park
If you don’t own bear spray, no worries! Renting is a convenient option, especially since you cannot fly with bear spray. Here are some places to rent bear spray during your visit to Glacier National Park:
Glacier Outfitters
Glacier Outfitters offers UDAP bear spray rentals with convenient pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the park. You can grab your gear before heading out for your hike and return it when you’re done exploring.
- Location: Apgar Village, 196 Apgar Loop Rd, West Glacier, MT 59936.
- Services: Bear spray rentals, outdoor gear, kayaks, bikes, and more.
- Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily.
- Website: https://glacieroutfitters.com
Bear Spray Shack
Bear Spray Shack offers convenient rental kiosks in Whitefish and Columbia Falls. This is an excellent option if you’re staying outside the park or arriving from nearby towns.
- Location: 650 E 3rd St, Whitefish, MT 59937.
- Services: Bear spray rentals starting at $10.
- Website: https://bearsprayshack.com
Glacier Park International Airport
For those flying into Glacier, this rental option provides an easy way to pick up bear spray right at the airport and drop it off before you fly home.
- Location: Near baggage claim area.
- Services: Bear spray rentals for travelers flying in or out of Glacier Park International Airport.
Some other places that offer bear spray rentals include Glacier Guides and Outfitters in Glacier National Park. You can rent bear spray at Bear Aware in Canyon Village if you’re headed to the greater Yellowstone ecosystem.
How to Rent Bear Spray
Renting bear spray is straightforward and convenient.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Online Reservations: Many rental services allow you to reserve bear spray online ahead of time. This ensures availability, especially during the busy summer season.
- In-Person Rentals: You can rent bear spray directly at the shop or kiosk once you arrive. It is unlikely that places will run out.
- Pick-up and Drop-off: Pick up your bear spray at the designated location (like Glacier Outfitters or the Bear Spray Shack), and return it when you’re finished with your hike. Many rental services offer flexible drop-off points, making it easy to return the spray without hassle.
- Safety Precautions: Rental services often provide instructional videos or guides on how to use bear spray. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the product before you hit the trails. Proper knowledge can make all the difference in an emergency.
How to Use Bear Spray
Bear spray is effective only when used correctly. Here are the best practices when using bear spray. Make sure all family members in your party are aware of how to use it.
Carrying Bear Spray: Always keep your bear spray easily accessible—whether in a holster on your belt or attached to a chest harness. Never store it inside your backpack, as it’ll be difficult to retrieve quickly in an emergency.
Using the Bear Spray:
- Remove the safety clip by placing your thumb under the clip and pulling it back.
- Hold the canister with both hands—one on the trigger and the other supporting the base.
- Aim slightly downward toward the bear’s face and spray in short bursts of 2-3 seconds.
- If the bear continues approaching, spray again until it retreats.
- Replace the safety clip and secure the canister after use.
Practice and Safety: It’s a good idea to practice with an inert (non-active) canister to get comfortable with the process. Always check the expiration date on your bear spray before heading out, and be mindful of wind direction when using it to avoid spraying yourself. Using bear spray in strong winds is not advised but could be unavoidable. Protect your eyes when using in strong winds or extreme weather.
Where to See Bears in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the best places in the United States to observe bears in their natural habitat. While sightings are never guaranteed, certain areas of the park are known for bear activity. Here are some top spots where you might see them.
For the most up-to-date information about bear sightings, stop by a visitor’s center and talk to a park ranger about recent sightings. The National Park Service is aware of the locations of bears in the park.
Many Glacier Valley: Often called the “Heart of Glacier,” this area is teeming with wildlife, including both grizzly and black bears. The trails around Swiftcurrent Lake, the Grinnell Glacier Trail, and the Iceberg Lake Trail are especially good for sightings, so keep your eyes peeled (and your bear spray handy). This is also a popular spot for viewing moose!
Logan Pass: The meadows around Logan Pass, including the Hidden Lake Trail, are popular bear habitats because of the abundance of huckleberries at these higher elevations.
Two Medicine Valley: This more remote section of the park is a prime area for bear activity. The Scenic Point Trail and the trails around Upper Two Medicine Lake are good spots for observing bears from a safe distance. Avoid blind corners that could inadvertently cause you to sneak up on a bear.
Camus Creek Area: Located in the park’s northwest region, the Camus Creek area near the Bowman Lake Campground is another place to see black bears. Early morning or late evening hikes are when sightings are most common.
Remember, while seeing a bear can be an unforgettable experience, it’s important to stay at least 100 yards away from them for your safety and the bear’s well-being. Always carry bear spray and practice proper bear etiquette when observing wildlife to avoid bear attacks.
Hiking Safety in Bear Country
Bear spray is just one component of staying safe while hiking in Glacier National Park. Here are a few additional tips:
- Hike in Groups: Bears are less likely to approach large groups of people. Try to hike with friends, keep children close, and make your presence known. Being a solo hiker is not recommended in Bear Country.
- Make Noise: Talk, clap, and sing as you hike to alert bears of your presence. Avoid relying solely on bear bells, as they might not be loud enough to warn nearby bears. There is also research being done to prove the illegitimacy of bear bells.
- Stay on Trails: Stick to marked trails to minimize the chances of a surprise encounter with a bear, especially in dense vegetation.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Look for signs of bear activity, like tracks, scat, and claw marks. Be especially cautious around water sources and berry patches.
- Hike During Daylight: Bears are most active at dawn and dusk, so plan your hikes during daylight hours when visibility is better for both you and the bears.
- Avoid Attracting Bears: Keep food securely packed away and avoid leaving garbage on the trail. Refrain from wearing scented lotions or perfumes that could attract bears. Leave odorous items at home and secure food at all times.
By following these safety tips, you can hopefully avoid the need for bear spray. However, you still need to carry bear pepper spray!
Additional Tips for Visiting Glacier NP
Planning your trip to Glacier? Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
– Best Times to Visit: The park is most popular from late June through August. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall).
– Essential Gear*: In addition to bear spray, bring sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, layers for changing weather, and a map or GPS device.
– Recommended Hiking Trails: Some top trails include the Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. Always research trail conditions before heading out.
– Safety Precautions: Follow park regulations, respect wildlife, and stay informed about any trail closures or bear warnings before your hike.
Pack It Up
In the face of an oncoming bear, having bear spray with you in a convenient place to grab is imperative. Parts of the park have more bears than others, but you’ll be in need of bear spray on your Glacier adventure.
Bear spray rental is an excellent option for people flying into Glacier National Park because bear spray is not allowed on flights.
Stop in a ranger station to learn more about active bear areas to avoid a negative bear encounter. While wild animals are exciting to see, you need to take the proper safety precautions.
If you have any questions about bear spray, bear safety, or enjoying Glacier National Park, drop your comment below, and I will happily answer it!
Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Meet the author
Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
