Bear spray - Appalachian Trail

imported
#1

Has anyone had any experience carrying/using bear spray on the AT? Bears are my one fear and I need advice before I head out. Thanks!

grapejelly

#2

I carried pepper spray, and fire crackers for 2,160 miles on the AT in case of bears. What a putz I was!!! Never saw a bear during the whole trip, and I doubt if you will see one. However, just in case that you might see one, I still wouldn’t bring anything for bears. Just my opinion!

Plum jam

#3

Bear spray is good against aggressive dogs. You likely WILL have some bad dog encounters on the trail, less likely to be charged by a bear.

Screen door

#4

i have run into bears three times on the AT in north Georgia. Each time the bear couldent get away from me fast enough.

snuffy

#5

If the spray is cayenne pepper based you can spray the bear liberally after you kill him with your .45. Very good on an open fire.

Wolf

#6

Thank you for your input…Snuffy, I have heard similar stories of bears running from people but I have a friend who happened upon a sow with cubs in Shenendoah and she and the bear had a bit of a staring contest…I’m a brave girl but that might scare me off the trail long before Katahdin!

grapejelly