Do not run, as the bear may chase you. Though bears may appear slow and awkward, they have been clocked running at speeds of up to 30 miles/hour, or about 44 feet/second, over short distances. For comparison, a world-class Olympic sprinter under ideal conditions can run only about 33 feet/second for very short distances.

The hikers were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, while officials said they would assess the site of the attack.

Black bears are hungry this time of year. Here's som safety tips, plus a video of an Asheville DJ's set being interrupted by a black bear and more.

The local government has closed walkways at the site known as Shirakawa-go, while police and hunters are searching for the cub.