Encountering a Bear During a Solo Trail Run: A Life-Changing Experience
The Journey Begins: A Solo Trail Run in May 2020
In May 2020, during the peak of the pandemic, the world seemed eerily quiet, especially in the great outdoors. Bethany Pinedo, a full-time trauma nurse, often found solace in the rhythm of her running shoes on the trail, a welcome escape from the grueling realities of her job.
Even on 12-hour shifts, her commitment to running never wavered. Waking up at the crack of dawn, she would log 16-mile runs before heading to the hospital. As her training heightened for an upcoming ultra marathon, the Barkley Fall Classic, her running routine became even more vital. But one fateful evening, everything would change.
A Friendly Warning Ignored
As Bethany prepared to embark on her usual trail run, her friend voiced concern. “You don’t usually go at this hour, and nobody knows where you are. Please don’t go,” she pleaded.
With a laugh and an air of confidence, Bethany brushed off the advice. “What’s the worst that could happen? I get eaten by a bear?" Little did she know that this jest would hover in the air like a dark omen.
Entering the Wild: A New Path
Bethany ventured into the Miller Canyon OHV area near Silverwood Lake, taking a less familiar route, hoping to reach a picturesque spot by a creek. About a quarter-mile into her run, she felt an inexplicable urge to look up, only to find herself face-to-face with a huge bear standing directly on the trail ahead of her.
The Bear Encounter
This wasn’t just any bear; it was a hefty creature that sent shockwaves of panic coursing through her veins.
“I thought to myself, ‘I’m going to take a picture because at least if my phone is retrieved, they’ll know what happened.’”
Adrenaline surged as she instinctively scanned the area for something, anything, to defend herself, but there was nothing—no climbable tree, no rock to throw.
What Travelers Should Know
While it’s intuitive to run at the sight of danger, Bethany remembered the safety tips she’d read about bear encounters: “Don’t run, or you’ll activate their prey drive.”
With the bear now charging toward her, her thoughts spiraled into dread. “I’m never going to see my kids again.” In those harrowing moments, she felt certain she was destined for a tragic end.
The Unexpected Escape
As the bear charged, Bethany hit her emergency whistle, a safety feature on her running vest she had once considered a mere accessory. Surprisingly, the sound startled the bear, halting its advance and causing it to approach her cautiously instead.
It was a stroke of divine intervention—had she followed her usual route, she might have encountered the bear in a much more dangerous scenario. Slowly, she began to back away, her feet shuffling as she clutched her whistle, heading back a quarter-mile to the safety of her car with the bear trailing behind.
The Aftermath: A Lesson in Preparedness
Back in her car, heart still racing, Bethany couldn’t shake the feeling of near disaster. “I fully thought it was going to kill me,” she recalled, and when she contacted Fish & Game, they confirmed it: this kind of behavior was indeed rare for bears.
She learned the importance of sharing her running route with someone and even sending a quick photo to let someone know her whereabouts.
On a whim, the day after the encounter, Bethany returned to the same trail, determined to reclaim her love of running. She dismissed her earlier instincts to avoid the trail at sunrise and sunset, opting instead for a safe morning run.
Embracing the Unknown
Now, with a newfound respect for the wilderness—and her life—Bethany has armed herself with bear spray for future runs into remote areas. The trail remains her sanctuary, teeming with beauty, but danger is a reality she’ll no longer ignore.
Reflecting on her journey, she believes it’s essential to face your fears. “You can’t let something own you because of what could happen. The outdoors is meant for enjoyment, not fear.” This belief fuels her passion, reminding her of the breathtaking scenery that envelops her, like the enchanted trails filled with baby frogs and vibrant ferns.
An Invitation to Share Your Story
Bethany isn’t alone in her encounters. If you have a wilderness survival story to share, please consider contributing. We’d love to hear your experiences navigating the untamed beauty of California or beyond. Share your tales of survival and adventure here.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor adventures can hold unforeseen challenges, but they also offer unparalleled beauty and tranquility. By preparing properly and remaining aware of your surroundings, you can continue to enjoy the wonders of nature. Are you ready to hit the trails with awareness and respect?
