Central VA – Bear Activity – Marble Spring Area 11/13/24

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Alert

11/13/2024

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has received reports of a food-conditioned bear near in the area around Marble Spring, from Petites Gap to the intersection with the Sulphur Spring Trail (NOBO miles 777.5 to 782.7). It is a young bear and would not leave a campsite at Marble Spring despite hikers trying to scare it away, and reportedly followed hikers for about two miles.

Appalachian Trail hikers in this area should exercise extreme caution, keep a clean camp by cleaning up all spills and crumbs, properly store all food and scented items overnight in a bear canister, and never leave food unattended – even for a moment to visit a privy or check out a view. 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.

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