Aspen Woman Narrowly Escapes Bear Encounter in Hot Tub

A Valentine's Day date takes a wild turn when a couple's hot tub rendezvous is interrupted by an unexpected guest.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A 23-year-old woman living in Aspen, Colorado recounts a harrowing Valentine's Day date that took an unexpected turn when she and her date were interrupted by a curious bear while enjoying a hot tub together. What was meant to be a romantic evening quickly became a hair-raising experience as the couple had to fend off the bear and make a hasty exit, with the bear even managing to get entangled in the woman's discarded bikini top.

Why it matters

This story highlights the unique challenges and risks that come with living in a place like Aspen, where wildlife encounters can disrupt even the most ordinary activities. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of being prepared and exercising caution when enjoying the great outdoors, even in the midst of a romantic getaway.

The details

The woman, a 23-year-old columnist living in Aspen, had been flirting with a bartender named Mike for months. When Mike invited her to a hot tub date on Valentine's Day, the woman eagerly accepted, wearing a hot pink bikini under her clothes. However, their romantic evening took an unexpected turn when they discovered that the hot tub they were using belonged to Mike's friend, and that the key was hidden, suggesting they may have been trespassing. As the couple began to get intimate in the hot tub, the woman suddenly spotted a pair of glowing eyes in the distance, realizing to her horror that they were being watched by a bear. The couple had to quickly exit the hot tub and make a hasty retreat, with the bear even managing to get entangled in the woman's discarded bikini top.

  • On Valentine's Day, the woman and her date went to the hot tub.
  • As the couple were in the hot tub, they spotted a bear watching them.

The players

Leslie Cohen

A 23-year-old columnist living in Aspen, Colorado.

Mike

A bartender that Leslie had been flirting with for months.

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What they’re saying

“You look so hot in that, he said into my ear, with a group of our friends standing around us. He tapped his hand against my waist, taking the soft, thin cotton between his fingers. I can't stop trying to touch your body.”

— Mike

“Is this what you want? For me to be in a constant state of craving you?”

— Leslie Cohen

What’s next

The couple will likely be more cautious about trespassing and encountering wildlife during future romantic outings in Aspen.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder that even in the midst of a romantic getaway, one must remain vigilant and prepared for unexpected encounters with wildlife, especially in outdoor settings like Aspen where bears and other animals are known to roam. Proper planning and caution can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.