A man recovers tonight after being mauled by a black bear at the Red River Gorge.

Wildlife officials say Tim Scott of Springfield was walking on a trail near the Wolfe and Menifee County line around 2:30 p.m. Sunday when a black bear attacked him.

Another hiker heard his shouts for help and threw a day pack at the bear--distracting it--allowing Scott to get away. Now, the search is on for that bear.

As the search continues for a black bear in red river gorge several roads and trails are shut down with signs posted--warning visitors and hikers that there’s an aggressive bear on the loose.

“They’re just as scared of us as we are of them they'll avoid us in most cases this is very atypical for any kind of bear attack,” said Natural Bridge Park Manager Tyler Morgan.

The attack prompted officials to shut down trails and recreational activity as they search for the bear.

“The bear was obviously sited somewhere next to Grays Arch on a trail and I think as of last night they had seen it in Koomer Ridge Campground.”

Officials set up a 2-3 mile radius just north of Mountain Parkway setting traps and snares.

It’s state policy to euthanize the animal following an attack such as this. Hiker Bill Boyyd disagrees with that policy.  

“When you're out in the gorge, you're in his backyard. How dare you. If he comes in your backyard that's yours but this is his,” argued Boyd.  

Boyd’s been hiking the gorge for years and says he's never come across a black bear.

“He's lost, he's disoriented and I just really think this is being blown out of proportion and I think the bear should be left alone.”  

Wildlife officials say the bear is a danger to hikers and residents.

Editor's Note: Please click here for more information about staying and playing safe in bear habitat.