Bear Aware in the Vail Valley: What to Know This September

If it feels like bear sightings are up this fall, you're not imagining it. Black bears have been spotted more frequently across the Vail Valley, in neighborhoods, on popular trails, and right in town. September is one of the most active months of the year for bears, and this year that activity is hitting close to home.

Here's why: bears are in hyperphagia, a pre-hibernation feeding phase where they need up to 20,000 calories a day. Their sense of smell can detect food from miles away, and right now, they are highly motivated. Trash cans, fruit trees, grills, compost bins, garage fridges, anything with a scent becomes a target. The closer bears get to neighborhoods, the more likely they are to return. And a bear that gets comfortable around people rarely gets a second chance.

The good news is that a few consistent habits in our community make a real difference.

Secure your trash. Put garbage out only on the morning of pickup, or use a bear-resistant container. A trash can left out overnight is an open invitation.

Remove attractants. Bring pet food inside after feeding, take down bird feeders for the season, and clean your grill after every use, including the grease trap.

Mind your deck. Don't leave food, drinks, or dirty dishes on decks or patios unattended, even briefly. Bears are bold this time of year and will help themselves.

Pick your fruit. If you have apple or crabapple trees, harvest promptly and clear fallen fruit from the yard. Fruit is one of the most common attractants in mountain communities.

Bear-proof your compost. If you compost, use a bear-resistant bin and avoid adding meat, fish, or cooked foods.

Close the garage. Bears can smell refrigerators and freezers and have been known to break in to reach them. Keep garage doors closed whenever you're not around.

Lock up. Bears can open car doors and unlocked windows. If your car or mudroom contains anything with a scent, groceries, coolers, trash, make sure it's secured.

On the trails. Make noise as you hike, especially in dense vegetation. Go with a group when you can, carry bear spray and know how to use it, and give any bear you encounter plenty of space. Never approach or feed wildlife.

If a bear is in your yard. Make yourself big, make noise, and give the bear a clear exit. Never corner it or cut off its escape route. Let it leave on its own terms.

Report sightings. Colorado Parks and Wildlife tracks bear activity across the valley. Reporting an encounter, especially in a neighborhood or near a school or trail, helps them monitor habituation before it becomes a serious problem. You can report online at cpw.state.co.us.

Living in the mountains means sharing space with wildlife that calls it home year-round. The steps we take this September, as a community, are what keep that relationship healthy for everyone.