by Sophia Mattice-Aldous
It doesn’t happen often, but every once in a while, when I tell people I occasionally hike alone, they look at me like I just told them I wrestle bears in a kerosene pit whilst puffing on a Camel Filter.
“I do say, madam!” (Insert indignant huffing and puffing sounds.) “Have you not considered the danger? The downright peril? You might as well jig barefoot on broken glass! Harrumph, I say!”
That’s embellished, of course, but that’s usually the gist of it. Followed up by the assertion I purchase a firearm posthaste, lest a pack of wolves devour me, Hokas and all, or I come across ruffians up to more than mischief.
My response is the same in person as it is here. If it makes you more comfortable to carry and conceal when you’re out on the trail, fine. You do what you feel is best for you. I’ve never taken a firearm hiking with me and I don’t plan on it. Not out of some ill-conceived sense of moral superiority or fake toughness, but because I am not going to put in the hours at the firing range required to ensure that I don’t shoot myself in the foot at the first sign of trouble. I carry bear mace and a big-ass walking stick. If the mace is good enough for the bears, more than likely it will also work wonders on any potential gooners lurking in the bushes.
Speaking of bears, it’s that time of year. Female bears with newborn cubs are taking a stretch, blowing the dust off and coming out of hibernation. Now is a good reminder for all hikers, newbies, pros, and those of us in the middle, to be bear aware. It’s not just a catchy slogan from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). It’s an imperative so the good people at WDFW don’t have to show up in case a mama bear decides you need a whooping.
None of us know everything, but knowledge is preparation. Bears, wolves, cougars, moose, rattlesnakes – none of them are jerks (as humans are sometimes wont to be). They are wild animals and deserve distance and respect.
Before entering their home, here are a few tips to keep you and yours as safe as possible.
Don’t hike solo: I know, I spent the first two paragraphs saying that is what I do, but usually, I am out with someone. The only times I really hike alone are when schedules with others don’t coincide and I don’t want to give up the day. Otherwise, two is better than one when you are hiking beyond the back 40. And while you can encounter a bear of courage any time in the wild, they tend to be more active at dusk and dawn.
Get loud, get funky: The latter is not necessary (unless the spirit really moves you), but the making noise part helps deter bears. I’m not saying blast your glam rock so loud they can hear you in the parking lot of the trailhead, but clapping, talking loud, singing alerts animals to your presence and the truth is, they would rather not run into you the majority of the time.
Be alert: Leave your earbuds in the car. Look for signs like bear droppings, logs torn apart, scratch marks in trees or in the dirt. Stay on designated trails and keep pets on a short leash.
Watch what you put in your mouth: It’s natural to feel peckish whilst exercising, but when it comes to being outside and wanting a snack, it’s probably best to leave the pulled pork sandwich and potato salad at home. Bears have a phenomenal sense of smell and a bear is one thing you don’t want to smell good to. Also, pack it in, pack it out. Don’t leave wrappers, sandwich bags, or uneaten food.
For more safety tips when enjoying the great outdoors, check out fs.usda.gov/r06/colville/safety-ethics. Be careful, have fun and let’s go hiking.
Sophia Mattice-Aldous is not a doctor, personal trainer or dietician, so if you’re looking for that kind of exercise and health column, it’s not this one. However, she is a lifelong Washington resident and reporter with an affinity for The Great Outdoors who thinks fitness should be fun, and that looks different for everyone. For her, it’s going outside. If you have questions and/or comments, including hiking suggestions, email [email protected].
