Moments ago I just had my first encounter with a black bear.
Had just taken this picture
Heard some loud rustling to the left – sounds like one of the many deer I’d seen. Walked past the sound and looked back. The bear was staring at me. My plan regarding bears is to photograph one if the situation permits (didn’t happen here). He grunted a couple times ( he was about 20 feet away). I knew that he was sending me a message. All I could think about was finding a big tree to hide behind if he approached (also not part of the bear reaction plan book). After about 10 seconds he walked laterally (not exactly away from me) and I took my show on the road.
I was reminded of the advice/wisdom my brother Tim gave me as he dropped me off for this section of the trip- “Junco, remember this – Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face”. Mike Tyson may have had a point.
Maybe I’ll be more poised at my next bear encounter.
Island Pond:
Interstate 87
Can’t get enough mountain laurels:
A cool toad
Enjoying NY but steering clear of NYC
What a day!!!
j
kevin hikes 
FINALLY! Good to know you respond to all stressful situations (from purchasing jewelry in Mexico to bear encounters) with the same confidence.
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I’m calling all such encounters “negotiations” and I’m working out the kinks 😊
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When I was homeschooling my kids, we did a lot of guided nature hikes in the state forest near our house. This was black bear central! We once asked our guide what to do if we encountered a bear. He said talk loudly and make yourself look bigger by stretching out your jacket with your arms. I’ve never used this strategy, since whenever I see a bear, I’m in the house or my car. I’m very grateful for that. I hope this incident is it for bear encounters on the trail!
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When I was young I would spend hours alone in the woods. I had a close call with a snake one day and never went back. Reading your blog reminds me of how good it felt to run along a dirt path. I still miss it. I guess the secret to cohabitating with anything in nature is just to be mindful that we’re never alone.
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Well said, Marti. I’m never alone out here !
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Snakes in the woods spook me too! I live in a rural part of Connecticut with rock outcroppings bordering a state forest. I’ve seen rattlers sunning themselves on the rocks about 75 feet from my house. It’s really intimidating. But, some of the scenery Kevin is seeing sees worth the risk. It’s amazingly beautiful!
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WOW!!! You could use some moonshine after that incident!!!
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