A recent cougar attack in Olympic National Park that injured a four-year-old child has raised concerns among outdoor enthusiasts across Western Washington. The child, who was bitten near the Victoria Overlook area on Hurricane Ridge on July 20, has since been released from Harborview Medical Center, according to the National Park Service.
In the wake of the incident, mountain bikers and hikers are being extra cautious, especially in popular recreation areas like Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park in Sammamish, where multiple cougar sightings have been reported in July alone. Warning signs have been posted at trailheads, alerting visitors to the increased presence of big cats in the area. Some of these encounters have even been shared by community members on the park’s official Facebook page.
“I’ve never seen cougar warning signs around here before, so that was definitely unexpected,” said Ian Monroe, who was out biking with his kids on Tuesday. “When we started on the trail, I definitely found myself scanning the woods a bit more than usual.”
Monroe, like many outdoor enthusiasts, acknowledged the inherent risk of venturing into areas where wildlife still roam. “I really feel for the family that went through that,” he said, referring to the recent attack. “But when we go into their habitat, it’s a risk we take. I’m not going to carry a weapon, but I try to stay aware.”
The Olympic National Park incident isn’t isolated. Earlier this year in February, a group of five cyclists had a frightening encounter with a cougar in the same region. A 60-year-old woman suffered serious facial and bodily injuries before her companions were able to fend off the animal. And in July 2023, another child was attacked in the park—an 8-year-old who was saved by their mother’s quick action.
Despite these alarming events, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) emphasized that fatal cougar attacks are exceedingly rare in the state, with only two recorded deaths in the past century. About 20 other incidents have resulted in injuries to humans, the agency said.
WDFW also reminded the public of key safety measures when encountering a mountain lion:
- Stay calm and don’t run. Sudden movement may provoke a chase response.
- Pick up small children immediately.
- Face the cougar and speak firmly while slowly backing away.
- Make yourself look larger. Stand tall, raise your arms, and if wearing a jacket, open it wide.
- Don’t crouch or turn your back. Keep the animal in sight and give it space to escape.
As wildlife habitats continue to intersect with recreational trails, authorities urge visitors to stay informed and take precautions. For now, bikers and hikers alike remain vigilant, hoping to enjoy Washington’s scenic wilderness without incident.
