Bear Cans

[Bud64]

I see that more places on the AT are recommending bear cans. I used them before and they were not bad. Any thoughts on the AT?

[Slo-go'en]

Personally, I wouldn't bother with the extra weight and the bigger pack needed to carry it. Bear boxes, cables or poles are now installed at many shelters these days in problem areas. Where there aren't learn to do a proper food bag hang.

[ldsailor]

Unfortunately, you may do a proper food bag hang or use a bear box, but the guy in the tent next to you (or even worse, in a shelter) may not hang his/her food at all. I had a couple setup hammocks, and then want to leave their food in the shelter where I was the only occupant. I don't like the extra weight of the bear can, but in the end, it may be the best solution for everyone if the AT requires it.

[moldy]

In bear country on the AT they have bear cables at all the shelters so it's un-needed weight to carry. Bear cans only work if everyone has one. It;s rare to see thru-hikers with one.

[TNhiker]

In bear country on the AT they have bear cables at all the shelters

i dont think thats true.....

i dont recall cables at standing indian shelter.........

and dont think blood mountain shelter has them....


however, the shelters in the GSMNP have them.....

[MuddyWaters]

The only two reasons not to bring a bear can , are that it's not required , and almost nobody else does.

If you're willing the tote the weight, they are convenient and stress-free.

I wouldn't mind if they were just plain required everywhere. Mine weighs 2 lb.

[rocketsocks]

Prolly sell more bear cans if they painted em to look like budwiser cans.

[Venchka]

I see that more places on the AT are recommending bear cans. I used them before and they were not bad. Any thoughts on the AT?

Key word: "recommending".
As long as personal choice and responsibility are retained, the Authorities can recommend anything they choose.
Bud64:
I've been going to the Rockies from south Louisiana and east Texas since forever. Very few rules. Very nice places to backpack. Very little difference in miles too.
Wayne

[BuckeyeBill]

i dont think blood mountain shelter has them....


however, the shelters in the GSMNP have them.....

You won't see cables at blood mountain because during a period from March 1 to June 1 bear canisters are required if you camp between Jarrod Gap and Neel Gap. Most NOBO hikers stop to camp just before Jarrod Gap and walk thru the area without camping. SOBO may do the same at Neel Gap. It is only 7.4 miles.

[skater]

BTW, something I learned recently... At Woods Hole Shelter, in between Jarrard Gap and Blood Mountain, there is a bear box (large steel bin). YOU ARE STILL REQUIRED TO USE A BEAR CANISTER, per the wording of the USFS order, during the seasonal period.