NC/TN – Bear Activity – Jones Meadow/Camp Creek Bald Area, 4/25/25
nc
|tn
|bear-activity
|hiking-safety
|Alert
04/25/25
The ATC received a report of a food conditioned bear at a campsite near a piped spring in the area of Jones Meadow (the campsite and spring are at NOBO mile 297.3). The bear stole an Ursack and had clearly defeated previous bear hangs, indicated by the strewn food wrappers.
All soft-sided sacks (including Ursacks) should be hung at least 12 feet off the ground and 6 feet from tree trunks and any branches. The ATC recommends using a bear canister no matter where you are on the A.T., since they have shown to be the most effective way to prevent bears from getting hiker food.
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 or provided food storage device if one is available (bear box, cables, etc.). 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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