We Ride Sport and Trail Magazine August 2017 | Page 14

Back at camp, take precautions against bear by putting all food up

at night and when you are away from camp. We did see a bear loping

down a hill during our ride so we can confirm their presence. The

American Bear Association confirms that a black bear’s sense of smell is incredibly sharp – seven times more powerful than that of dogs - and is able to detect odors from more than a mile away.

1. Know how to properly hang food out of a bear’s reach.

2. Pack food and other odorous items in odor-proof bags or

containers.

3. Bring airtight bags for trash, leftovers, cooking clothes, etc.

"safe

The American Bear Association

Bears are naturally afraid of humans, but may become “habituated” or accustomed to people along popular hiking trails. Keep the area safe for humans and bears by never feeding or approaching bears. Should a bear come near you he is most likely curious or smells

something interesting. If he stands up, he is not going to attack but is trying to get a better look or smell. Bear attacks are

extremely rare and by comparison a person is about 67 times more likely to be killed by a dog, or 90,000 times more likely to be killed in a homicide.

Bears are powerful and strong animals; they should always be treated with caution and respect." The American Bear

Association

Bear Proof Your Campsite