ATC has received multiple reports in early to mid-May of bears taking food in the trail section around McQueen Knob – from south at the old farmstead to the emergency shelter. This same stretch of trail had bear activity in 2018.
Several campsites were visited by a bear that was circling around until able to grab insufficiently hung bags or broke the low branch to gain access to the food. Sometimes the hanging bags were just torn in place to drop the contents.
Please take necessary precautions to limit risk of encountering a bear, Hikers should camp 200 feet away from where their food and “smellables” are stored for their own safety. For most adults, 200 feet is about 80 steps. Bear canisters should be sealed correctly and not stored in shelters. (Certified list) Proper use for Ursacks are to tie securely to the trunk of a tree. (Link to their How to Use page) Hanging bear bags should employ a very high branch away from your campsite. (Instructions – practice at home first!)