From the Division of Wildlife Resources:
Most forested areas in Utah provide habitat suitable for black bears and probably contain a resident population of bears. Because bears are solitary and secretive, they usually avoid humans but are attracted to odors such as those from human food, pet food, garbage, hummingbird feeders, toothpaste, suntan lotion and insect repellent.
To prevent conflicts with black bears:
Never feed a bear. A fed bear is a dead bear.
Keep campsites, as well as areas surrounding cabin sites and rural homes, food- and litter-free. Food attracts bears and encourages them to remain in the area. Remove all garbage from the area. Clean barbecue grills and store them inside a secure facility. If garbage is stored on the premises, keep it in a covered, bear-proof container and remove it often.
Do not leave food in coolers, out on picnic tables or any place bears can access it easily.
When camping, store food where it cannot be reached by bears. Never keep food in your tent. Store food in the trunk of your car or in a bear-proof container.
If hiking in dense vegetation, such as that found along stream banks, make noise to alert bears of your presence. Voices, whistles and other noises are usually sufficient to make bears aware of you.
Never approach or come between a mother bear and her young. A mother bear may be extremely aggressive when she is with her cubs.
If you encounter a black bear:
Do not make direct eye contact. Bears perceive eye contact as aggressive behavior.
Stay calm. Immediately pick up small children.
Make noise, yell, clap your hands, bang pots or throw rocks to scare it away.
Make yourself appear as large as possible. Raise your arms, jacket, pack or other object over your head.
Never approach a bear. If it approaches you, retreat slowly or climb a tree until it leaves.
Do not turn and run, as this may trigger an attack. Slowly back away.
If you are attacked and cannot get away, fight back, kick, scream and yell. Be aggressive.
All bears should be considered potentially dangerous and should be treated with caution and respect. If you observe unusual or threatening behavior by a bear, please notify the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office.