>>1687594The important thing when travelling in bear/lion coutry is to reduce your chances of an encounter. The key to this is proper food managment. Black bears _do not want to fuck with you_ they just want your food. There are very simple and effective steps you can take to make sure you don't bump into one.
>Do not eat where you camp>Do not cook where you campThe ideal pattern is to eat you evening meal 30 mins before you reach your intended camp spot.
>Do not camp in places where a lot of people campThis isn't always possible in the states. However, animals aren't stupid and learn quickly that a place that recieves a lot of traffic is more likely to have food so they target these places when hungry.
>Odour proof your food and smelliessBuy yourself an Loksak, google it, they are standard kit when travelling in bear areas. Keep all your food, cooking gear, trash, and other smellies (tooth paste, cream, deo, soap, etc) in this bag. It's basically a big ziplock bag that doesn't let smells out of.
>Check the regs of where you are travellingA lot places require you to keep food and smellies in a special container. Be it a bear can or ursack. If this is the case then fucking do it. You are not clever or special by ignoring these rules, they are there to protect you and the animals.
>If you see a black bear then shout at itBlack bears are just big dogs, yell at it and wave your arms. You don't need to go crazy, going bat shit might provoke the bear. Just loudly say "HEY BEAR" and tap your trekking poles together.
>Mountain lionYou won't see one. If it wants to eat you, you'll know, when it lands on your back...
>mini bearsMice, racoons, rats, chipmunks. These are the real fuckers. They will chew your sleeping bag, tent, shoes, etc. They are a pretty common feature of commonly used camp spots. To avoid them hang your food bag. You don't need to do a full blown bear hang, just high enough for little critters to not get at it.
