Grizzly bear mauls hiker, drags him dozens of feet on Glacier National Park trail

The hiker, Daniel Crago, said he and a friend were nearing the end of the trail when he continued ahead to a snow-covered section to take in the views and snap a few photos.

As he scanned the area, he spotted a larger grizzly on the mountainside about 15 feet away, the fundraising page noted.

Crago said he attempted to alert the animal to his presence - but believes the close encounter may have startled the bear.

"As soon as it saw me, it charged down and attacked me," he wrote on the GoFundMe page.

Several nearby hikers quickly stepped in to help.

A pediatric emergency room physician who happened to be on the trail stabilized Crago's arm and helped stop the bleeding.

Then, another hiker continuously made noise to discourage the bears from returning, according to the fundraiser page.

Another visitor used a satellite communication device to contact emergency responders and request a medical evacuation.

He said he's undergone three surgeries so far and expects to need at least one additional procedure as part of his recovery. As a result, Crago said he is facing significant medical bills associated with his treatment and ongoing care.

The fundraiser was created to help offset costs while he focuses on healing.

"I am deeply grateful for everyone who has supported me," he wrote.

Glacier National Park is home to about 300 grizzly bears, according to the National Park Service. The park also has roughly 600 black bears, for a total bear population of about 900 to 1,000 bears (the figures are approximate).