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Comment by Denis J. on March 6, 2015 at 7:26am

Yes, a Maritimer born and raised.    I'm originally from Edmundston which is pretty close to Arroostook too on the Apalachian mountains.  Here's in the south easter part of the province is pretty flat but we do get the occasional black bears that wonder in the city or in local parks.    I have the bear bell too but I can't see myself walking in the woods with that on me..   :)    I will consider the bear spray from our local hunting stores.

We've considered moving to Fort Mac Alberta a couple of years ago but the salary for public servants are not that great considering cost of living and housing.    I was also worried at the -30 and -40 temperatures for raising a pup but if you can make it in Alaska I guess they would adapt..    haha

Comment by Rebecca M. on March 6, 2015 at 12:42am

Hi Denis,

I haven't checked it on the map yet, but I'm guessing we hiked about 4-5 miles in from the trailhead, and then took the same route back out?  However, this is Alaska; I have run into bears and moose on the trails in Anchorage (i.e. you don't need to leave town to find wildlife).  When outdoors, it's always important here to be "bear aware."  I carry bear spray, practice using it, and make sure to replace it when it expires.  A lot of people use bear bells too, but I can't stand the noise.  (People go to nature to enjoy peace and quiet, right?)  I may try to get Timber to wear one, but right now he's not interested either.  I make sure to make plenty of noise, so the bears know I'm coming and don't get startled.  If given warning, critters are more likely to try to avoid you than confront you.  It's also smart to travel with groups, but I'm usually a solo hiker.  We're lucky in Alaska that it's very easy to get above tree level or on open tundra, so it's easier to see the critters when they're still a ways off.  Timber still has a lot of work to do on off-leash recall, but now is a great time to practice - the bears are still hibernating and mama moose aren't protecting young calves yet.

Anyway, the short answer to your question - try bear spray.  It is much more effective and has a farther range than a baton, and less legal/ethical issues than a gun.

Also, I saw from one of your other posts that you're from New Brunswick?  I lived in Aroostook County, Maine before moving to Anchorage.  We were practically neighbors!  Enjoy your hiking with Wally!

Comment by Denis J. on March 5, 2015 at 7:44am

I'm curious, how far are you in those trails and what's the chances of encountering wild life that could potentially be ... hostile?

I'm always wondering even when Wally and I go about 5-6km in trails away from the city. We don't have anything at our disposal in the event we meet either a bear, coyote, or some angry raccoon or something. I've been told Corgi could hold their own when threatened but I would want to risk it.

Any recommendations what could be useful to bring on hike for protection?

I've been considering buying those extendable batons that local law enforcement uses, to carry with me on hikes. In the event an agressive loose dog or wild life comes threatening, I would have something at my disposal for a good wack on the side or head to fend for ourselves. Those are not illegal in our provinces as long as you don't conceal them and are in plan sight from a holster.

Comment by Rebecca M. on March 5, 2015 at 1:56am

John, I stole your "marmot" nickname, I hope that's okay!  Corgi's do really resemble oddly-colored marmots though....

Comment by John Wolff on March 5, 2015 at 1:14am

Al & Gwynnie spot a kindred spirit! 

Those look like mountans, only bigger.