Q: My wife and I are changing directions in how we vacation. We are going to the wilderness now to get away from it all. We want to go to British Columbia and the Yukon Territories of Canada. These two places are one the top of our list due to the beauty of the nature there. However, we will not hike in Grizzly country without protection. So what are the laws up there in the way of carrying a gun on hiking trips? Ok, let me add. I would not just start shooting at bears because I see them. I would only shoot if we were under attack. So of all the people in Canada that were mauled by Grizzlys, I wonder how many wished they had a gun for protection? Any questions?
A: It is actually not recommended that you carry any weapons while hiking. For most bears, they are more afraid of you. The best way to prevent bears from crossing your path is to make noise. If you're with someone, talk as much as possible. If you're by yourself, carry a bear bell or if you are annoyed by bear bells, just talk or sing out loud to yourself. Unless you go really remote into BC, you won't really find any bears near people. If you are going camping, you can find tips on line on how to protect food and whatnot while camping. Shooting a bear is just wrong my friend. You might actually get convicted for shooting a bear in some cases. If you do meet a bear, just stand tall and start shouting at it. DON'T RUN FROM THE BEAR. The bear is faster than you and will see you as prey if you start running. If you meet a bear, you have to pretend that you are the hunter. I would give you a .01% chance of actually meeting bears. Just don't shoot the bears, it is not beneficial for you or the bear.