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Serious question, do you really need a bear canister for the whole Lost Coast Trail?
I just got back from my third trip on the Lost Coast in California, and I keep seeing the same thing. A lot of hikers carry those big, heavy bear canisters for the full 25 miles, but I think it's overkill for most of the trail. The main bear activity is really concentrated in the middle section near the Mattole River. I've done the north section twice now with just a proper hang, using the PCT method, and had zero issues. I know the rules say to carry one, and rangers will check, but I see people struggling with the weight and bulk on those long beach walks for no good reason. It feels like a rule made for the worst-case spot applied to the whole route. What's your take? Is carrying the can the whole way just following the letter of the law, or is it a real safety must?
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laura_ross4d ago
Check out what @sean_hunt61 said about sea lion creek, does that change your mind?
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sean_hunt6125d ago
Saw a trip report where a guy got his food bag ripped down at sea lion creek, which is way south of the mattole. Rangers are strict for a reason.
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