Where is a bear canister required on the JMT?

[Chris Lynds]

I am hiking the JMT this July. I will carry 1 bear vault with 7-8 days of food between MTR and Whitney. I would like to be on the trail more than 7 days. I have read online that a bear canister is not required between MTR & Pinchot Pass. Is that still in effect? If so, I figure I can put the extra food in my Ursack. Or do I need to carry a 2nd canister?

[Jeff Hester]

There are specific areas within Sequoia/Kings Canyon NP boundaries that require bear canisters, but if you plan your camps outside of these areas, you can hike through them.

Here is a PDF map that shows the areas where canisters are required: http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/FoodStorageContainer_PageSize_20130906.pdf

We did this when we hiked the JMT and it worked out well. We only needed the “extra” space for a couple days and then were able to squeeze it in.

Of course, if I were to do it again I would probably hire a packing station to bring another resupply — probably over Kearsarge Pass.

Have a great hike!

[Author]

Posts