Olympic National Park Coastal Food Storage

As of May 2013, all food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved Bear Canisters along the entire Olympic National Park Wilderness Coast. Buckets or other hard-sided containers are no longer permitted. Bear canisters are available for loan at the Port Angeles WIC and several additional park ranger stations.

Along the coast, especially at Cape Alava and Sand Point in the Ozette area, years of heavy use, feeding of wildlife, and improper food storage have habituated raccoons to stealing human food. Raccoons are clever, resourceful, and aggressive. They can climb ropes, hang from tree branches and leap long distances. Raccoons have learned how to work toggles and zippers, and can unscrew containers.

Do not feed any wild animals!

To protect wildlife, yourself and your gear:

NEVER leave unsecured food unattended. Turning your back for a moment is long enough for a raccoon to snatch your food.

Store your food, garbage and scented items in bear canisters at all times.

Keep a clean camp.

Any type of gear is susceptible to raccoon thievery. Store any unhung, unscented gear inside your tent (NO FOOD).

 

Black bear

Black bears also live in the coastal wilderness and frequent tide pool areas. They can be seen on the coast year-round. Be sure to protect your food and gear from bears.