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BOULDER, Colo. (KDVR) — Summer is just around the corner, temperatures are warming up, and bear encounters are on the rise across Colorado.

Earlier this week, a woman hiking on the Flatiron Loop Trail came across two bears.

“It was very special to see them, but I was surprised because it happened on Flatiron loop, which is a very popular hike. There were a lot of other people on the trail and the bears didn’t seem to mind. Wasn’t a remote area at all. Also, some people had their dogs off leash, so that was a little concerning,” shared Daria Sukova.

As of Wednesday morning, the total number of bear sightings in Colorado in 2021 sits at 396.

If you see a bear you can report the sighting to either Colorado Parks and Wildlife or the Inquire Boulder website.

If you come across a bear on a trail, here’s what you should do, according to CPW:

  • Stand still, stay calm and let the bear identify you and leave. Talk in a normal tone of voice. Be sure the bear has an escape route.
  • Never run or climb a tree. 
  • If you see cubs, their mother is usually close by. Leave the area immediately