COLORADO NEWS

Bear scratches napping Steamboat Springs man

Sep 8, 2026, 12:08 PM | Updated: Sep 9, 2026, 3:57 pm

Let this be a lesson to all of us who think a backyard nap sounds relaxing.

A Steamboat Springs resident was recently scratched by a bear while snoozing in a patio chair — this is why I nap on the couch like a normal person.

According to Denver7, the adult noticed the bear approaching and did everything right — stayed completely still, didn’t panic, didn’t scream. Very calm. Very brave. Very much not what I would have done.

The bear, apparently unimpressed with the whole situation, huffed, popped its jaw and then just…reached out and scraped the person’s knee.

Just a little “hey, you’re in my spot” from Colorado wildlife.

Thankfully, a neighbor swooped in with bear spray before things got any worse, and the resident walked away with only minor injuries — no medical treatment needed.

So to recap: napping outside in Colorado, bear approaches, neighbor saves the day with bear spray.

Absolute Wednesday in the Centennial State.

Wildlife reminder, friends — Colorado Parks and Wildlife says if you encounter a bear, do not run. Also maybe don’t nap outside. Just a thought.

Colorado News

(Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)...

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Bear scratches napping Steamboat Springs man