Based on information published by the GSMNP, it looks like we may have a good chance at a bear sighting this weekend. The latest Backcountry Info Poster warns that hikers should use caution at the Mt. LeConte shelter and on half of the trails that we will hike (Alum Cave, Rainbow Falls, and Trillium Gap).
On one of my recent practice hikes, I was on the way back down from LeConte on the Trillium Gap trail and began hearing someone blow a whistle loudly every few seconds. I picked up the pace, thinking that someone was in trouble. In a short time, I approached a family that was on their way up. They had seen a bear earlier in the day and decided to blow their whistle regularly to ensure that they didn’t see another one.
I wouldn’t mind seeing a bear, I just hope we don’t have any more encounters with yellow jackets!
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