Fox encounter on Granite Mountain Trail; Exercise Caution

Published on February 11, 2026

Hikers Encounter Aggressive Fox on Granite Mountain Trail; Public Urged to Exercise Caution

For Immediate Release

YAVAPAI COUNTY, Arizona. –   Yavapai County Community Health Services is issuing a public health advisory following an unprovoked fox attack on Granite Mountain Trail over the weekend.

A couple hiking approximately a quarter mile before the junction with the Little Granite Trail reported being attacked by a fox without warning. One individual sustained a minor injury and was treated at Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC). Out of an abundance of caution, the patient has begun a post-exposure rabies vaccination series.

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal if medical treatment is not sought before symptoms appear.

To protect yourself and your family while using local trails, YCCHS recommends the following safety measures:

• Avoid All Contact- Never touch, feed, or approach wild animals, even if they appear friendly or in distress
• Recognize “Sick” Behavior- Be alert for animals that appear hyper-aggressive, disoriented, or unusually tame. Rabid animals may also salivate excessively or appear partially paralyzed.
• Do Not Run- If you encounter a wild animal, do not turn your back or run. Back away slowly while making noise and making yourself appear as large as possible.

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