Professional runner attacked by bear on Alaska trail, uses spray to escape

A professional runner was attacked by a brown bear while training alone on a popular trail near Anchorage, Alaska, on Thursday, authorities said. The woman was running on the Wolverine Bowl Trail near the Prospect Heights trailhead when the bear attacked her.

During the encounter, the runner deployed bear spray and was able to escape to the trailhead on her own. She was transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the attack. Alaska's Fish and Wildlife Department did not disclose the extent of her injuries in an initial statement.

The runner later described the experience on social media, saying the attack felt like "a nightmare that became reality." She reported suffering a deep puncture wound to her left hip along with claw marks and bite wounds in various parts of her body.

According to the runner, the attack occurred on a trail she regularly runs weekly. She emphasized that bear spray was effective in deterring the animal during the encounter.

Biologists from Alaska's Fish and Wildlife Department interviewed the woman and visited the attack site to search for signs of bear activity and collect samples. No bears were located during the investigation. The department placed warning signs at the trailhead following the incident.

Officials noted that thick, dense summer foliage in the area can block sightlines, making surprise encounters with wildlife more likely. The department reminded hikers to stay off closed trails and to exercise caution in areas where visibility is limited.