If you should encounter a black bear in the woods, don't run from it. Running from predator triggers a chase and attack response. Its an invitation to play a dangerous game and you can't outrun a black bear in the forest. Face the bear; predators like the element of surprise. Talk to the bear quietly, letting it know you are there. Back up slowly, but keep your eyes on the bear. Black bears prefer to run from you than to face you, so if the bear thinks that you are far enough away that it can slip into the forest, it probably will.