A husband and wife’s leisurely bike ride along a Canadian trail took a terrifying turn over the weekend when they spooked two grizzly bears, causing them to attack.

Local authorities said quick thinking by the woman likely saved both their lives as she used bear spray to drive the animals away.

The incident happened around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, while the couple was riding e-bikes near the Kootenay River. According to the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (COS), the bears attacked after being surprised.

The woman told authorities she heard her husband yell before seeing a bear charge toward her. As she reached for her bear spray, she noticed another grizzly attacking her husband. She deployed the spray again, successfully driving both bears away. 

Because the bears appeared to be acting in self-defense, wildlife officials decided not to pursue or relocate them.

Officials emphasized that bear spray is a proven, effective deterrent against bear attacks.

“Like a seat belt, it should be considered essential safety equipment when traveling in wildlife country,” the organization shared in a resource guide on their website.

Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com