Trail Updates

08/05/2025

The ATC received a report of a mother bear and cubs in the area around Catfish Fire Tower (NOBO mile 1,310.4).

You can help keep A.T. bears, yourself, and other hikers safe by following these guidelines: 

• Exercise caution when hiking through this area. If you encounter a mother bear with her cubs (or any bear on the A.T.), give her plenty of room. Even it means turning around.
• Keep a clean camp and trail. Pack out all trash and food waste. 
• Cook and eat at least 200 feet from campsites and the shelter. 
• Properly store all food and scented items overnight in a bear canister or use a provided bear box (all A.T. shelters in NJ have a bear box).
• Never leave food and scented items unattended – even for a moment to visit a privy or check out a view. 

The ATC recommends using a bear canister no matter where you are on the A.T., since they have proven to be the most effective way to prevent bears from getting hiker food. ATC has received reports of bears on the Trail defeating even proper PCT-style bear hangs. 

Learn more about bear safety, proper food storage on the A.T., and what to do if you encounter a bear on our Bear webpage.

Report all bear encounters via our Bear Encounter Report form.