A group of rafters experienced a frightening close call on the Elaho River near Squamish Friday, when a young grizzly bear swam towards the group’s safety kayaker at top speed.
The adventure group’s tour guide filmed the encounter on his GoPro camera.
WATCH: Grizzly bear caught on camera charging Squamish kayaker
While grizzly bears are good swimmers, the kayaker managed to get away downstream and the rafting group was also able to safely make their way past the bear.
Sgt. Simon Gravel with the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said it’s not unusual to see bears in the area, but he has never seen a grizzly charge a kayak before.
“I’ve never seen a kayaker being charged like this,” he said.
“We do have some cases where a black bear or a grizzly bear will bluff charge. In most cases, it’s a defensive behaviour. They’re just trying to communicate that you’re not welcome in the area.”
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