[pct-l] Bear Canister

["Tom Simon" <simontom@cgocable.net>]

In response to your question, David Hillman, about the value of a Bear
Canister, I started a hike through the Sierras with a bear canister - I
didn't want to have my hike ruined by a bear stealing my food. Several days
later, on the verge of having my hike ruined due to carrying a heavy
canister I met about six thruhikers who reinforced Ray Jardine thinking in
these regards. I would say no thru hiker carries a canister. I sent mine
back to Canada. STEALTH CAMP!! That's the answer. People who insisted on
camping in those nice sites with the logs all set up as benches, where other
people often stayed, had tons of bear problems. Only a mile away in an off
the beat site I had none. Do not make a big smelly fire to announce where
you are. Eat a couple hours before you camp for the night. I firmly believe
proper hanging of food is an adequate measure. Certainly this statement will
solicit many hot answers and I may some day be proven wrong. But the
canister will stay at home until in Alaska or Yukon bear country - despite
the peace of mind it brings at night.

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