Greg Boswell and Nick Bullock Escape Grizzly Bear Attack On Mount Wilson In Banff National Park
UK ice climbers Greg Boswell and Nick Bullock were attacked by a grizzly bear in the Canadian Rockies this week during their attempt to climb Mount Wilson (3261 meters) near the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park between Banff and Jasper.
After sunset and in the snow, the climbers were heading to the next pitch of their climb, when they startled a grizzly bear. The bear charged and bit Boswell’s lower leg – straight through the boot. To escape from the clutches of the bear’s jaw, Boswell reached forward with his hands and pried the bears jaws from his legs. This tale of survival is on par with the bow hunter who shoved his arm down a grizzly bears throat to escape an attack earlier in 2015.
Once free, both Boswell and Bullock fled the site of the attack. After assessing the situation, Boswell had five open wounds on his legs and was bleeding. He needed medical attention ASAP. The two retrieved their axes, crampons, and ropes and then began to retreat back down their route in the dark.
Bullock helped Boswell descend down three rappels and then drove two hours to reach the hospital in Banff. Boswell was treated and released the next day. He is currently recovering.
Jon Stuart-Smith with Parks Canada says that the duo most likely “surprised this bear as it was trying to den.” Park officials have officially closed this area.
For the best account of this incident, read Nick Bullock’s blog.
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