Part of Mount Rainier's Wonderland Trail closed because of bears

Parts of the Wonderland Trail in Mount Rainier National Park are temporarily closed for "unusual bear activity" just as Memorial Day weekend arrives.

The 93-mile-long trail that encircles Mount Rainier is closed between Narada Falls Trail and Stevens Canyon Road.

The National Park Service didn't specify exactly what that "unusual bear activity" is - whether that's bears busting out the electric boogaloo or smoking and playing cards at the picnic tables - but did give some guidance for what to do if you come across a bear.

Mount Rainier National Park is home to black bears, which can be black, brown, or cinnamon in color despite their name, but no actual brown bears or grizzly bears, according to the park.

So remember the old saying if things get dire in the forest: "If it's black, fight back."

If you encounter a black bear, the National Park Service advises hikers to stay calm and alert and do not approach the bear (that means don't go up to take a photograph with it, obviously) and stand quietly. If the bear stops, watches or changes directions toward you, you're too close.

Back away slowly while facing the bear and never run, especially if it starts to approach you. Stand your ground.

If the bear approaches you, shout, act aggressive, make yourself look big by raising your arms or poles in the air. Throw rocks and sticks at the bear if you need or use bear spray as a last resort, but only if the bear is within 20 yards. Do not play dead. Fight back.

The National Park Service did not specify a timeline for reopening the Wonderland Trail.

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