[pct-l] bears & food

[randy_forsland at hotmail.com (Randy Forsland)]

Yes, and even within Yosemite NP, bear canisters are only required in
certain areas. Every year I hear that they are mandatory throughout the park
that just  is not true. Here is a blurb from www.nps.gov:

Backcountry
The National Park Service strongly encourages backpackers to carry and use
bear-resistant food storage canisters. Bear canisters are required at High
Sierra Camps and above 9,600 feet unless food storage lockers are being
used. These portable containers are the most effective way for backpackers
to store food in wilderness areas. All other techniques are considered only
delay tactics, as bears are cleverly able to defeat most other backcountry
food storage methods-- bears are routinely obtaining properly hung food.
Each plastic canister weighs less than 3 pounds, fits in a full-sized
backpack, and is capable of holding up to 3 to 5 days' worth of food for one
person. Bear canisters are available for rent for $5 each per trip at
wilderness permit stations and are available for purchase from the Yosemite
Association.

And in the Kings Canyon, Inyo areas, they are not mandatory on the PCT
either...only on the spur trails leading out to civilization.

And if you are really worried about getting a ticket from an overzealous
ranger, just do what  do..I carry a second wilderness permit made out to Tom
Reynolds...just give them that and be on your way ;-)

Redwood

----- Original Message ----- 

From: <Slyatpct@aol.com>
To: <pct-l@backcountry.net>
Sent: Wednesday, December 31, 2003 7:10 AM
Subject: Re: [pct-l] bears & food


> Hasn't it been demonstrated before that a thru-hiker can get past the
problem
> areas by camping in areas with bear boxes and resorts.
>
> If I remember correctly the only "regulated" area is from Tully Hole to
> Donahue Pass and that can be done in a day.
>
> I suppose if you intended on doing short days through the High Sierra one
may
> be prudent, but not necessary.
>
> Sly
> _______________________________________________
>