Black Bear or Bigfoot?

by
posted on November 5, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wilder_ah2015_fs.jpg (2)

The forest can hide its share of surprises, and a group of hikers in Utah learned just that last week. In this video, posted to YouTube on Oct. 30, a hiker and his companion appear to be observing a bear in Provo Canyon. When the furry beast realizes its not alone, however, it stands up—revealing a form that's more than enough to scare the upstart camera crew away at a sprint.

Their footage went live with the title "Provo Canyon Bigfoot Encounter?" not long later. The video's owner later told Salt Lake City's FOX13 that no one in the group had ever believed in Bigfoot—until the encounter, I'd guess—and that they thought they'd be recording the far more common (and decidedly real) black bear. Later reports have said that the group left all their camping gear behind during the hasty departure, and returned for it the next day.

The most logical explanation is that our hikers were simply videoing a bear that popped up on its hind legs after it realized it wasn't alone. That happens. Even so, there are enough "Bigfoot" believers out there for the debate to remain open, and the video itself has amassed more than 2 million views in less than a week.

In reality, it looks like a bear. A lot like a bear. A glare from one of them will send most hikers scurrying away just as fast a hypothetical Bigfoot encounter would. And that's assuming this isn't some sort of elaborate hoax.

I personally can't bring myself believe that there are any Bigfoot like creatures wandering around the American Northwest—in large because if there were, some hunter would have dragged one out of the woods by now. That said, I leave it up to you to watch the video and decide.

Latest

W H2026 03 Eastturkey IMG 7028
W H2026 03 Eastturkey IMG 7028

Keys to the Eastern Turkey Hunt

A turkey is a turkey regardless of subspecies, sure, but best hunting tactics often vary depending on geographical location due to the birds’ varying behavior. Translated, killing turkeys back East is different than killing them out West. Check out some Eastern-specific tips below, and stay tuned for a follow-up targeted at our Western readers.

Montana and Utah Celebrating 125th Anniversaries

Two 125th Anniversaries are occurring this year, the first being for the entire Montana FWP, and the second being a key piece of property in the history of the Utah DWR.

First Look: Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Green Dot

Purpose-built for turkey hunting and wingshooting, the Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Red Dot line now adds a green reticle option for those who prefer it in certain lighting and shooting conditions.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Series

Blocker Outdoors' Finisher Series is a one stop shop for turkey hunters looking to streamline their clothing and gear in the field. Read on for some of the top pieces in this lineup, designed to keep hunters cool and comfortable, while maintaining easy access to essentials.

Know How: Shed Hunting Hellholes

Mark Kayser's fascination with shed antler hellholes kicked off and continues today in whitetail country. Not satisfied with the occasional shed antler found in stubble fields, hay grounds and open pastures, he turned his attention to the thickest, steepest and nastiest geography in the whitetail woods. Here’s why you should consider putting on your big boy pants for a deep dive into the extremes for shed antler rewards.

New for 2026: Federal X Henry Birthday Boy Collector's Edition Ammo

For 2026, Federal Ammunition has partnered with Henry Repeating Arms to produce a collector's series ammunition. This limited-edition load was developed for Henry's commemorative .45-70 Government Golden Boy lever-action rifle, touted as the Birthday Boy.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.