A visit to Yellowstone National Park turned into a terrifying encounter when a massive bull bison charged a grandfather visiting with his grandson, sending him flying through the air in a viral video that has been making the rounds online.

The incident happened Friday at Yellowstone, where the grandfather and his grandson were visiting the park and taking in the incredible wildlife. Video captured by a nearby photographer shows the bison charging toward the man as he tries to get away by running around a group of trees.

Unfortunately, the bison caught up with him, hooked him with its horns, and tossed him into the air. The man flew several feet before hitting the ground hard.

Thankfully, he is expected to make a full recovery, although he suffered a broken leg and needed surgery.

 Watch the viral video here: https://twitter.com/i/status/2076123348161995138

 The Bison Was Not Provoked, Witness Says

While some wildlife encounters happen because visitors get too close or ignore safety warnings, this situation appears to be different.

Photographer Mike Macleod, who captured the incident, said the bison had wandered into a campsite and initially focused its attention on a group of young boys near a tent. The kids were reportedly taking photos from a distance of about 50 to 100 feet away.

The boys quickly scattered, but shortly afterward, the bison noticed the grandfather and his grandson. The pair had stopped to take photos of the animal from afar when the bison suddenly charged.

The grandson was able to run away, but the grandfather was chased down and thrown into the air.

Witnesses stepped in, helped move the bison away, created a safety perimeter, and called 911.

 A Wild Landing Gets a Funny Review

Macleod rushed over to help and tried to lighten the moment by joking with the injured man.

As a former U.S. Army paratrooper, Macleod told him he would give his landing a “9.5 out of 10.”

The grandfather reportedly replied:

“Well, if you just caught me five years ago, I coulda done better.”

Despite the scary moment, the man’s sense of humor remained intact.

 Yellowstone Reminder: Wildlife Is Still Wild

The National Park Service is investigating the incident, but early reports indicate this was not a case of visitors intentionally provoking the animal.

Park officials regularly remind visitors that even when you are following the rules, wild animals can be unpredictable. Bison may look calm while grazing, but they are powerful animals capable of moving quickly and reacting suddenly.

The National Park Service recommends staying at least 25 yards away from large animals like bison, elk, and deer, and 100 yards away from predators like bears and wolves.

A beautiful wildlife photo is worth remembering, but it is never worth becoming part of the wildlife story.