Skier Narrowly Dodges Charging Black Bear at Keystone Resort
The dramatic encounter, captured on video, highlights the risks of wildlife activity as bears emerge from hibernation in Colorado's mountain regions.
- Brian O’Neal, a skier at Keystone Ski Resort, avoided a close collision with a charging black bear on April 6, 2025, during his first run of the day.
- The encounter, which occurred on the resort's closing day, was captured on video by resort employee Nathan Lynch and widely shared online.
- The bear charged directly at O’Neal before veering off into the forest, underscoring the unpredictability of wildlife in recreational areas.
- Vail Resorts has issued safety reminders urging visitors to remain vigilant, report wildlife sightings, and maintain a safe distance from animals.
- The incident comes as bears emerge from hibernation, signaling increased wildlife activity during seasonal transitions in mountain environments.