The attack happened Thursday as Wallmer was traveling to the Rapids camp yurt. She was running with her dog, about 10 minutes ahead of another volunteer.

Officials say she was making noise on the trail to announce her presence, but the blowing wind probably obscured her voice.

The bear charged her, and she dropped her dog's leash and turned her back to the sow. The bear bit her once.

The bear roared and left, presumably to chase the dog. The dog came back about 10 minutes later with the other volunteer on a four-wheeler.

She was treated at a clinic for four puncture wounds but a release from the state agency says she otherwise "appeared to be in good spirits."

Rangers and biologist say this was a chance encounter with the sow, who also had a cub with her, and no further action was necessary.

The nature center is about 20 miles northeast of Anchorage.