dkramalc, did the ranger also mention avoiding direct eye contact? Just curious....

With the black bear, it's all about you telling the bear that he doesn't want any piece of you...but of course its all with attitude. Direct eye contact (loose the sun glasses), lots of loud "power" voice sounds, standing up tall, waving the hiking poles ect. Another reason to travel in groups cause its much less of a problem then.

Just to be clear, don't do that stuff with a griz. Animal behavior is pretty interesting stuff. Sometimes you might even have to use that knowledge.

Hikerduane, I'm glad your friend is ok.