Hey bear!

[MSHappyCampers]

Originally Posted by doc

surely you are not serious??

It sounds like a logical question to me!

[rarebear.nm]

Bells are one thing, the sound does not carry very far. But I think many hikers would become angry with the sound of an air horn that carries a long distance. Many people highly value the quiet nature of hiking and such sounds would be against everything they go for. I've camped in bear country for years and had them in/near camp on a nightly basis. Close encounters, yep two to three feet a few times. We were both startled. Never had a handshake from one yet.

These days I may carry bear spray if ever required. Like others said just normal conversation is all it takes to avoid the unwanted encounter. I'm much more concerned about the two legged critters doing harm than the wild ones.

What ever, you don't ever want to be between momma and baby bear. Be aware of your surrounds.

[lug]

That sign is funny.

[emuller1]

Originally Posted by rarebear.nm

Bells are one thing, the sound does not carry very far. But I think many hikers would become angry with the sound of an air horn that carries a long distance. Many people highly value the quiet nature of hiking and such sounds would be against everything they go for. I've camped in bear country for years and had them in/near camp on a nightly basis. Close encounters, yep two to three feet a few times. We were both startled. Never had a handshake from one yet.

These days I may carry bear spray if ever required. Like others said just normal conversation is all it takes to avoid the unwanted encounter. I'm much more concerned about the two legged critters doing harm than the wild ones.

What ever, you don't ever want to be between momma and baby bear. Be aware of your surrounds.

Well said, bells are perfect and pepper spray as last defense.

[Tooth Doc]

Rangers in Yellowstone do not recommend bells or whistles or any artificial noisemakers. They say a sound that would be connected with humans are more likely to be effective, therefore the "HEY BEAR".. They also strongly recommend bear spray in an immediately useable location, not a backpack.

[scenic route]

^^^This is true. It's best to know what kind of bears are in the area you're camping or hiking in. Bear scat is a good way to tell...black bear scat will have berries and other plant remnants. where as grizzly scat will have remnants of whistles, bells and other noise makers in it.