Many Native American peoples consider the bear to be closely akin to man because it can stand and walk on two legs. They are a symbol of the primal, natural world denoting strength, wisdom and survival.

Because of the ability to semi-hibernate, they are thought to also represent the power of the unconscious. Their hibernation symbolizing the ability to draw upon inner stores of energy.

The Ute tribes of Colorado honor the bear as created by The One-Above (Sinawaf), and sent to teach them about survival and to combat the mischief of the Coyote. In the spring at the first sound of thunder the Ute would hold their annual Bear Dance to awaken the grizzly bear so the bear could lead them to gather roots, nuts and berries. During the winter preparation for this four day festival is made; a Bear Dance corral is built by the men while the women made clothes for the dance.

During the festivities the people wore plumes, each signifying a worry or problem. At the end of the dance, the plumes would be left handing on a cedar tree showing all problems were left behind with the ending of winter and the beginning of spring.

The story behind the beginning of the dance is based on two brothers that were hunting in the mountains. They stopped for a rest and one of the brothers saw a bear clawing and dancing around a tree. He watched the bear, learning the dance and song as his brother continued his hunt. The bear instructed him to teach the song and dance to his peoples as a sign of respect for the bear's spirit which imparts strength.

Now most of the Bear Dances are held in reservations in the Southwest USA in June. Cameras are usually allowed, but it is courteous and wise to ask for permission before taking pictures.