Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park: Spring Backpacking

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Bears are attracted to human food. In trying to obtain that food, bears cause thousands of dollars in damage to vehicles, foodstuffs, and camping equipment each year. Do not leave food in the passenger section of a car or in an unattended ice chest. Bears at Yosemite have been known to break through car window glass. Store food in an ice chest, then lock it in a trunk or recreational vehicle. In campgrounds use food storage lockers. Improper food storage is a violation subject to fine. Additional information on bears and precautions you should take is available at park entrances and campgrounds.

Be prepared to store food in one of these three ways:

We strongly recommend the use of bear-resistant food canisters when possible. This is the best food storage method currently available. Rent or buy National Park Service-tested bear-resistant portable food canisters (available at the Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Curry Village Mountain Shop, Crane Flat Grocery, Wawona Store, and Tuolumne Meadows Sport Shop). Bear canisters can be purchased at the the Wilderness Center in the Valley. If you are unable to use a bear-resistant canister, use bear boxes, poles, or cables. The counter-balance method of food storage is only effective if you follow the guidelines below. Remember it is only a delaying tactic.

Find a tree with a live and down sloping branch. Toss as far out on branch as will support weight of food, but not a bear cub.

Use quality 1/8" to 1/4" cord, and heavy duty nylon stuff sacks to store food. Make sure bags are evenly weighted with no more than eight to ten pounds each.

Do not tie rope off to another tree. Make sure no solid objects or branches are under food for the bear to stand on.

Consider proper food storage as a delaying tactic only. You must defend your food when a bear comes into the area.

Regardless of your food storage method: Always store garbage, cosmetics, toothpaste, soap, or anything with any odor with food. Store items properly at all times except when preparing what is needed for your meal. Leave empty pack on the ground with all pockets and flaps open. Store water bottles out of sight with cooking gear.

In your vehicle: Never leave food or garbage in your vehicle at trailheads. Bears can break into cars if they see or smell food. Plan ahead, don't bring excess food. Items that resemble food or food containers (sacks, ice chests, cans, etc.) left in cars at trailheads should be stored in the trunk or hidden from view.