Grizzly bear mauls hiker, drags him dozens of feet on Glacier National Park trail
FILE: Grizzly bear at Glacier National Park, Montana, United States of America. (Photo by DeAgostini/Getty Images)
A hiker who survived a terrifying grizzly bear attack in Glacier National Park is recovering after multiple surgeries — and is now facing mounting medical expenses.
The attack occurred on May 28 on the Grinnell Glacier Trail, one of the park's most popular hiking routes, according to a fundraising page created after the incident.
The hiker, Daniel Crago, said he and a friend were nearing the end of the trail when he continued ahead to a snow-covered section to take in the views and snap a few photos.
Crago said he attempted to alert the animal to his presence — but believes the close encounter may have startled the bear.
"As soon as it saw me, it charged down and attacked me," he wrote on the GoFundMe page.
The bear bit his arm and dragged him between 20 and 30 feet before running away.
The attack left Crago with a severe arm injury that required emergency medical treatment.
Several nearby hikers quickly stepped in to help.
A pediatric emergency room physician who happened to be on the trail stabilized Crago's arm and helped stop the bleeding.
Then, another hiker continuously made noise to discourage the bears from returning, according to the fundraiser page.
Another visitor used a satellite communication device to contact emergency responders and request a medical evacuation.
The injured hiker was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital, where he underwent emergency treatment and surgery.
He said he's undergone three surgeries so far and expects to need at least one additional procedure as part of his recovery. As a result, Crago said he is facing significant medical bills associated with his treatment and ongoing care.
The fundraiser was created to help offset costs while he focuses on healing.
"I am deeply grateful for everyone who has supported me," he wrote.
Crago also said that any money raised beyond his medical expenses will be donated to the U.S. National Park Service.
Glacier National Park is home to about 300 grizzly bears, according to the National Park Service. The park also has roughly 600 black bears, for a total bear population of about 900 to 1,000 bears (the figures are approximate).