@Marc_OV_AZ wrote:
Serious Answer Now!
Having backpacked for 20+ years in North Idaho and Northwest Montana, Grizzly Bears were always a potential threat.
Common sense was the best #1 Option in bear country. Storing food correctly was a given.
Keep you dog on a leash or at least on a 20’ lead.
On the trail or at camp, never be in “Code White” (Oblivious of potential threats from beast or man). If we observed fresh Grizzly Bear scat on the trail, we would turn around and go home.
If we saw a Grizzly Bear, we would immediately leave the area (Downwind) and break trail if needed to go home.
We would be extra cautious when picking huckleberries when they were in season, because Grizzly Bears like huckleberries as much as we do. When on the trail, have something that rattles or makes some kind of noise while you trek. If a bear hears you approaching from a distance, they will probably avoid you and exit. If you surprise a Grizzly Bear with your sudden approach, trouble happens quickly. The same goes when Momma Bear is with her cubs. You cannot outrun a Grizzly Bear. Bear Spray is standard equipment when backpacking in this region of the Northwest. If you carry a sidearm for protection from potentially bad people, carry it concealed if permitted by local, state and federal agencies.
Seeing someone with a gun on the trail, other than during hunting season, makes people nervous.
Reminds me of this advice:
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