Hiking and Camping in Black Bear Country

Why Are Canisters Required?

The bear population in Georgia has remained stable for the last decade, but conflicts between bears and humans have continued to increase. That is due in part to the increase in visitors, but also to our inability to ensure that bears are not accessing food and trash. Unfortunately, bears and other wildlife have been able to access food due to poor food storage, unattended food left on trails and at shelters, and trash left in fire rings and on trails. Over time, bears have learned to associate humans with easily accessible calories and are losing their natural fear of people. Georgia represents only 3.5% of the Appalachian Trail, but accounts for over 12% of bear incident reports.

“With the trail going through the heart of North Georgia’s black bear habitat, we want the hikers who flock here to understand how incredibly valuable these public lands are – for people and for wildlife,” says Forest Supervisor Judy Toppins. “Finding a balance that protects hikers, wildlife, and forest health is our goal. Hikers are visitors to bear habitat, and everyone needs to do their part.”

Hard-sided bear canisters are the most reliable and efficient method to keep bears and other wildlife from accessing food. Studies have shown that the use of bear canisters significantly reduces the number of conflicts between bears and humans. Carrying and properly using a bear canister is the best way for us to protect both wildlife and hikers.