Ticks, Giardia and Bears, Oh My!
Potential Dangers on the Appalachian Trail
When I discuss our family's plan to hike the Appalachian Trail, many express concerns about encounters with black bears. I understand the question because when I first got into backpacking, the thought of running into a bear was a bit intimidating.
However, when I finally saw a bear in the woods, it was a magical experience and wasn't scary at all.
The greatest threat that thru-hikers face is an itty-bitty blood-sucking arachnid — the deer tick. These minuscule predators harbor significant diseases and can be incredibly challenging to detect on dirty hiker bodies. Ticks are abundant and unavoidable on the trail.
If you spend any significant amount of time in the Appalachian Mountains, chances are good that you may see a black bear. Yet, it's important to understand that the black bear isn't interested in you as a meal; rather, it's the allure of your delicious pasta primavera with marinated tofu that draws them in. There are no grizzly bears along the Appalachian Trail. Three main factors that may cause a black bear to become aggressive are: if they perceive you as a threat to their cubs, if they are after your food, or if you have startled them and are invading their space.
If you see a black bear cub in the woods, it is important that you do not come between the mother and her cub. If you see a cub, move away from it and through the area as quickly as possible. If you see a bear with its back to you, make your presence known by clicking your trekking poles, clapping loudly, or saying “hey bear”. With this, the bear usually bolts.
I’ve seen dozens of bears in the woods and I have only felt uncomfortable twice; once at night when I had a bear sniffing around my tent, although it scared off easily. Another time, when the bear was showing interest, would not spook, and was lingering too long for comfort. Luckily, a group of hikers happened upon me and the bear retreated. From personal experience, I've learned that most black bears prefer a swift retreat when humans are around. The key to avoiding bear-related incidents is to ensure your food is kept out of their reach.
However, if you do find yourself face-to-face with a bear, here's what to do:
Do not run and do not scream.
Speak calmly, “hey bear” to identify yourself as a human and not a prey animal.
Pick up small children and keep speaking calmly, “go away bear”.
Slowly wave your hands/trekking poles above your head.
Make yourself look larger by turning to the side to reveal your pack or move to higher ground.
Do not drop your pack.
Move away slowly sideways while not making eye contact. Do not turn your back on the bear.
If the bear follows, hold your ground. Do not run or climb a tree.
Leave the area and take a detour if possible.
If the bear attacks, fight back.
Other potential dangers include:
Giardia
Humans
Getting lost
Injury
Snow
Hypothermia
Heat
Sunburn
Firearms
Hitchhiking
Theft
Lightning Strike
Mice/Hantavirus
Snakes
Spiders
Stinging Insects
Mosquitoes
Poisonous Plants
Rabid Animals
Wild Boar
Coyotes
It’s important to keep your wits about you while in the backcountry. Learn about what to do to mitigate dangers. Some dangers are unavoidable, like ticks, mosquitoes, and weather. If you plan ahead and learn how to protect yourself in the wilderness, you will be a lot better prepared to handle potential dangers.