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Visual observations were used to determine if human recreational activity affected grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) use of open meadow areas in Pelican Valley, Yellowstone National Park. Visitor compliance with bear management regulations and safety warnings were also evaluated. From May-September 1984-88, 944 bear observations were recorded. During this period, the study area was managed for 3 levels of backcountry use: open (both day use and overnight camping allowed), restricted use (day use only), and closed (no visitor use allowed). The average flight distance of grizzly bears to tree cover following disturbance by backcountry users was 422 m. When the valley was open to visitors, bear activity in areas greater than 500 m from forest cover was significantly reduced and bears avoided areas around occupied backcountry campsites. No differences in diurnal hourly activity patterns were observed among the open, restricted, and closed periods. Foot parties were more likely to be charged during an encounter with a grizzly bear than people on horseback. All incidents in which hikers were charged by bears involved groups of 1 or 2 people. Only 17% of the observed hiking parties followed the recommended group size of 4 or more people. Compliance with the area closure and day use only regulations was 99% and 83%, respectively.