This large male takes his daily walk along the banks of the McNeil on his way to the falls. It is amazing how much ground a bear can travel in a few minutes. He may be just a little dot in the distance, but in a few minutes he'll be right up close to you. There are many chances at McNeil to get close shots of bears, but don't overlook the nice scenic shots of the animals in their natural surroundings. I like the scenic shots as much as the close ups. I think showing animals in the wild is sometimes more dramatic than a close up in your face shot. Nikon F4s, Nikkor 300 2.8 EDIF, Fuji Provia film.

Another nice scenic of the same bear, on further down the river. The scan does not do the slide justice. This is another of my favorite shots that will end up on my wall at home in the form of a 16x20 cibachrome. Nikon F4s, Nikkor 300 2.8 EDIF with TC-14B, Fuji Provia film.

This guy with his catch, heads toward his favorite gating spot. Lucky for us, it is right in front of us. Nikon F4s, Nikkor 300 2.8 EDIF, Kodak E200 film.

This young cub has lost his mom and is looking for her high on the banks of the McNeil. The cub will emit a loud squeal while looking for mom. The cub's mom found her within a few minutes. It is at this time while the mom is looking for a cub that they become stressed and it is not a good idea to be anywhere near them. It is really a neat site to see a bear upon its hind legs. I only had a few shots the whole trip of any bears in this upright stance. The adult bears are more impressive standing on their back legs, but I'll take what I can get. Nikon F4s, Nikkor 300 2.8 EDIF, Fuji Provia film.

More bear pics….