Audio Introduction (a MP3)
Bear Viewing 2009 (a printable pdf)

Symbolic of the Alaska wilderness, both grizzly bears and black bears inhabit southcentral Alaska and may be encountered in the backcountry. To keep these magnificent creatures wild and enhance your personal safety, keep the following in mind: 

• Make noise while hiking to alert bears of your presence
• Use Bear Resistant Food Containers and store them 100 yards (meters) from cooking areas and tent sites
• Be alert for bears and alter your activities to avoid them
• Never run from a bear
• Pepper spray can be carried as an added precaution. However, it is useful only as a last resort in the event of an emergency, and should not be viewed as substitute for proper backcountry behavior.

When you visit Alaska Public Lands Information Center, inquire about detailed information about hiking in bear country.