06/02/2026
Bear Can Bowling, Anyone?
The High Peaks region is home to a variety of wildlife, including one of its most iconic residents: the American black bear. These animals were here long before hikers, campers, and NOLS students arrived, and they know these mountains better than any of us ever will.
As outdoor recreation has increased, so have encounters between people and bears. Improper food storage can lead to bears becoming habituated to humans, creating risks for both wildlife and visitors. To address this issue, bear-resistant canisters became required in the Eastern High Peaks in 2005 and remain one of the most effective tools for protecting wildlife.
Using a bear canister is a simple way to follow Leave No Trace Principle #6: Respect Wildlife. Unlike food hangs, which can fail due to poor technique or determined bears, bear canisters provide a reliable, bear-resistant storage solution.
If you’re planning an overnight trip in the High Peaks, don’t leave home without one. Forest rangers may issue citations to campers who fail to carry an approved bear canister. If you don’t own one, bear canisters can be rented from the High Peaks Information Center before your trip.
Protect your food, protect the bears, and help keep the High Peaks wild for everyone.
