Bear Canister Requirements

[bfulton]

I tried searching both this forum and also Google and I didn't see a clear answer to whether or not bear canisters are required anywhere in Arizona. My wife and I will be hiking the Arizona trail in March and I'm trying to get our gear list locked down. I'm not asking if it's recommended, but if it's required. Thanks!

[big_load]

Which site number? I think they have replaced it since that went down. If they are over-stuffed or not closed all the way they will open freely...

It was still functional, it just had a clearly identifiable dent. I'll have to dig through the old pics. It was on one of the sites that's far too close to the stream.

[sirena]

I think you need to con a few of these HikeAZers to get on that volunteer wagon. Maybe we could even get some ABCers, too.

Well, for those who want the info- there is a group that meets almost every other Thursday morning - called the "crazies" because we work all year round. The contact person is Lee Allen and his email is janlee"at"dakotacom.net. For the weekend crews, contact Mark Flint at markflint"at"dakotacom.net. Exciting stuff happening on the Arizona Trail in Southern Arizona! I have really enjoyed the people I have met, as well.

And for an added incentive: weekend crews get lunch from Beyond Bread, Thursday Crazies get homemade cookies!

[pencak]

I'd recommend you get an Outsak to fend of varmints. http://www.simpleoutdoorstore.com/products.html
Locally, you can get them at the Hiking Shack. http://hikingshack.com/locationhours.html
Have fun, sounds like the trip of a lifetime.

[joebartels]

You will be required to use them if you camp in Saguaro NP during the trip through there.

Just to clarify, SNP said... the only place you can camp is in designated campgrounds and the containers are provided.

Good thing I called, the email just came back today about 40 days later

Greetings From:
Saguaro National Park
"SAGU Information"

Hello,

I sincerely apologize for the delay in responding to your request. We have
bear proof containers at all our backcountry campsites for your use.
Please let me know if you have any other questions or if I can help in any
other way.

Respectfully,

Chip Littlefield
Park Ranger
Saguaro National Park
2700 N. Kinney Road
Tucson, AZ 85747
(520) 733-5157

The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American
people so that all may experience our heritage.

traildex@gmail
.com
To
01/20/2010 03:06 sagu_information@nps.gov
PM cc

Subject
From NPS.gov: Bear Canisters


Email submitted from: traildex@gmail.com at /sagu/contacts.htm
Hello,
Are Bear canisters "required" for camping in Saguaro National Park?