Part of Appalachian Trail Closed In VA Due To Bear Activity
Part of the Appalachian Trail closed due to bear activity this week. For the past week or so a 200 pound bear has been causing problems in the Wildcat Ridge/Turk Mountain area of the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. This bear has been exhibiting “very persistent behavior attempting to get hikers’ food” the park service reports. On October 6, 2017 the park service had to restrict overnight camping along the Appalachian Trail between Riprap parking at Skyline Drive Mile 90 and Turk Gap parking at Skyline Drive Mile 94.2. This is in the southern section of the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia just north of Waynesboro, VA. Camping was restricted due to bear activity that involved searching for food. Hiking was not restricted and is still allowed on that section of the AT. The SNP service warn hikers to be vigilant about securing their food and snacks while in this section of the Appalachian Trail.
Bear Activity Closed Section Of AT in VA
It is a known fact bears like to seek food in campgrounds and backcountry campsites. Bears search through trash cans, campsites, tents and even cars looking for food. While camping never leave food or snack items just lying around, the smell of the food can attract bears. Even BBQ grills that have remnants of steak, chicken, fish or other grilled food can attract bears. If you are hiking or camping and you encounter a bear do not run. A bear can outrun and outclimb humans. Make a lot of noise and wave your arms while backing away slowly. Do not get any closer. If attacked do not play dead but hit and fight back.
Bear Safety Tips
Keep your distance of at least 50 yards
Make noise so the bear knows you are there
If the bear starts to approach back away slowly
Do not turn your back on the bear
Do not run
Make loud noises
Do not approach or chase the bear and do not surround it
If the bear approaches you and you have no choice stand up, wave your arms, yell and shout, clap your hands, and throw rocks at the bear
Most of the time if you avoid making close contact or if you make noise this will result in a good outcome
Hikers on the Ap in the SNP encounter black bears…
