SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — In a heart-stopping moment caught on camera, a skier narrowly dodged a black bear sprinting across the Ridge Run Trail at Heavenly Ski Resort.
The gripping video, initially shared on TikTok by user @Tao7570, showcases the adrenaline-pumping encounter that unfolded on a crisp Sunday morning in South Lake Tahoe. The skier requested credit for the video from ABC10, emphasizing the urgency of acknowledging its source.
The footage commences with a group of at least five skiers, including @Tao7570, carving their way down the trail. On the left-hand side, the imposing figure of a black bear can be seen, seemingly unperturbed by the approaching thrill-seekers.
As the skiers descend, the bear abruptly launches into a sprint, crossing the trail with a breathtaking speed that keeps the adrenaline pumping. @Tao7570, capturing the heart of the incident, comes perilously close to the bear as it charges across the snowy expanse.
In an interview with ABC10, @Tao7570 expressed gratitude for narrowly escaping the encounter unscathed. The skier’s relief was palpable, further emphasized by the joy of witnessing the bear’s reunion with its mother just off the trail. The heartwarming moment unfolds at the 12-second mark, briefly visible before the natural screen of surrounding trees obstructs the view.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the untamed nature that coexists with recreational activities in the picturesque surroundings of Heavenly Ski Resort. While the skier’s narrow escape adds a thrilling chapter to the resort’s lore, it also underscores the importance of respecting wildlife boundaries in this pristine winter wonderland.
As visitors flock to Tahoe for the snow-covered escapades, the video stands as a testament to the unpredictable encounters that nature enthusiasts might face, adding an element of awe and wonder to their alpine experiences.