Traveling in bear country comes with responsibilities to camp and hike in ways that respect the natural activities of bears. NOLS Bear Essentials draws on NOLS' 45 years of experience leading trips in bear country, as well as the input of noted scientists who have studied bear behavior.
Discover how to identify grizzlies and black bears. Study common bear encounters and how to avoid them. Learn ways to camp so as not to attract bears, the safest options for storing food when car camping or backpacking, and how to be bear aware while fishing and hunting.
Regional Bear Information
Zoom in and click on your local region to find specific advice from local wildlife managers on how to more safely coexist with bears in your area.
