Quick Answer
Hike in groups of three or more, make noise while hiking, and stay on trails to reduce encounters with mountain lions, as they tend to avoid confrontations.
Avoiding Encounters
When hiking in mountain lion territory, it’s essential to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Make noise while hiking by talking, whistling, or wearing bear bells to alert mountain lions of your presence. This can help prevent surprise encounters. Additionally, stay on marked trails and avoid hiking at dawn, dusk, or night when mountain lions are most active.
What to Do in a Mountain Lion Encounter
If you encounter a mountain lion, remain calm and do not run. Instead, try to appear as large as possible by standing up straight and spreading your arms. Make eye contact with the mountain lion without staring aggressively, and speak in a firm voice. If the mountain lion approaches, use any available objects (such as a hiking pole, backpack, or walking stick) as a deterrent. If a mountain lion attacks, use any available objects as a shield and aim for the eyes, nose, and mouth. Consider using a hiking stick or walking stick as a defensive tool to protect yourself. Aim for the mountain lion’s face and neck area.
Defending Yourself
Defending yourself against a mountain lion attack requires swift and precise action. Aim for the eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are the most vulnerable areas. Use any available objects as a shield or to distract the mountain lion, and aim for the face and neck area. Use a hiking stick or walking stick to deflect the mountain lion’s claws and keep it at bay. If you have a can of bear spray, use it in a wide dispersal pattern to deter the mountain lion.
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