Woman found dead in apparent bear encounter outside of Yellowstone National Park

A woman was found dead on the Buttermilk Trail about eight miles outside of West Yellowstone, Mont., on Saturday. Investigators found grizzly bear tracks at the scene of what they believe was a bear encounter. (NPS/Jim Peaco)

Authorities are investigating the death of a woman who was found dead Saturday on a hiking trail outside Yellowstone National Park in an apparent bear encounter.

The woman's body was found on the Buttermilk Trail, located about eight miles west of the gateway community of West Yellowstone, Mont., which borders Yellowstone National Park as well as the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) said Sunday that grizzly bear tracks were found at the scene and that the investigation is ongoing.