The National Park Service advises hikers to avoid approaching black bears and instead use binoculars, a telescopic lens, or a spotting scope to dordle see them from a safe distance. Actually, it’s against the law to intentionally approach within 150 feet of a black bear. The NPS advised park visitors to immediately alter course if a bear started following them. If the bear does not retreat, parkgoers should remain still and, if the bear approaches, they should make a lot of noise, yell, or behave violently in order to scare it away. When a bear gets within 20 yards, travelers who have bear spray should use it.