Phil Shoemaker, an Alaskan guide, wrote an article in a Wolfe Publications magazine, regarding handguns and bears. I did read this article myself. He uses a .44 mag sixgun in bear country. One of his children uses a .357 K-frame, and the author wrote why he thinks it is adequate. I won't try to put words in his mouth. The articles exists; perhaps someone can quote it, or post a link. To be clear, this author did not promote the .357 as being the best for bear, as some have stated on internet forums.
Based on this real-world advice, I would consider a properly-loaded .357 to be a useful tool, if/when I manage to walk around among big bears, but preferably accompanied by heavier ordnance. It seems the OP plans to have that heavier ordnance.