Hiker Fought Lion with Stick Weeks Before Fatal Attack on Same Trail

A Colorado hiker used a stick to fight off a mountain lion last month. The attack happened on a popular trail near Bailey, Colorado. Weeks later, a woman was found dead on the same trail. Authorities suspect a wildlife attack caused her death. The earlier encounter happened in late July. The male hiker reported that a mountain lion rushed at him. He grabbed a nearby stick and hit the animal until it ran away. He was not seriously injured. On August 11, a different person found a woman's body on that trail. The Park County Sheriff's Office and Colorado Parks and Wildlife are investigating. They have not confirmed the cause of death but say evidence points to a wildlife attack. Officials remind hikers to be alert in mountain lion country. Key advice includes hiking in groups, making noise, and keeping children close. If attacked, fight back aggressively with any available object. Do not run or play dead.