A grizzly bear attacked and seriously injured two hikers in Canada, sending both to a hospital, local wildlife officials reported.

British Columbia Conservation Officer Services (COS) confirmed the Sunday, Oct. 12, attack took place in the McGregor Mountain area, about a two-hour drive northeast of Prince George.

According to the law enforcement agency, the hikers encountered a female grizzly bear with two cubs on Farm Cabin Trail near Pass Lake.

Wildlife officials did not release details about the injured hikers, including their ages or where they are from, but said the pair were transported and treated at University Hospital of Northern British Columbia.

According to the Oct. 14 update from the agency, both hikers remained in stable condition and were recovering at the hospital.

The agency posted a photo of two helicopters soaring above part of the trail.

Grizzly bear was defending cubs, wildlife officials say

Following an investigation, the COS Predator Attack Team determined the bear’s actions were defensive.

"Due to the location and nature of the incident, no action will be taken against the bears," the agency wrote.

USA TODAY has reached out to COS officials.

Grizzly bear attack closes trail

As of Wednesday, Oct. 15, no other attacks had been reported in that area.

The trailhead also remained closed, with signs posted, and people were being asked to avoid the area.

What to do if you encounter a bear

If a bear gets too close for comfort, it's essential to remember not to run away, Maggie Peikon, the manager of communications for the American Hiking Society, previously told USA TODAY.

Tips if you encounter a bear:

  • Do not turn your back
  • Do not run
  • Speak calmly
  • Create space between the animal and your body
  • Side-step away from the bear

What to do if a bear attacks you

Hikers should carry bear spray for protection. If needed, aim the bear spray slightly downward in front of the bear's head.

If attacked, Peikon recommended the following actions:

  • Protect your head and neck
  • Get as low to the ground as possible to protect vital organs

Contributing: Julia Gomez, USA TODAY

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mama grizzly bear attacks 2 hikers, hospitalizing both people

Reporting by Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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