Trail Updates

PA – Bear Activity – Outerbridge Shelter Area UPDATED 8/8/24

08/08/2024

Update: The Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club (BMECC) now offers a bear canister lending program in partnerships with Berks County Parks. See the image below for more information. The BMECC maintains a 64.4 mile section of the A.T. along Blue Mountain from Lehigh Furnace Gap Road to Rausch Gap, with the exception of a section between Bake Oven Road and Tri-county Corner.

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07/23/2024

Update: The ATC continues to receive bear reports for the George W. Outerbridge Shelter area (NOBO mile 1,260.3). Hikers should continue to exercise caution in this area, keep a clean camp, and pack out all trash and food waste. Never leave unsecured food unattended – even for a moment such as a quick trip to the privy or to check out a view. Secure food, trash, and scented items overnight in a bear canister or the bear box at the shelter.

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07/09/2024

The ATC received a report of a food-conditioned bear in the area of George W. Outerbridge Shelter (NOBO mile 1,260.3). A mother bear and two cubs have been seen frequenting this area and the mother bear approached two hikers eating lunch, and was only deterred by bear spray.

Hikers should exercise caution, properly store all food and scented items at night, keep a clean camp, and pack out all trash and food waste. Never leave unsecured food unattended – even for a moment such as a quick trip to the privy or to check out a view.

The ATC strongly recommends that all overnight hikers use a bear canister for the duration of their time on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). Never sleep with your food or trash. Hikers are strongly encouraged to use the provided bear box at George W. Outerbridge Shelter.

Learn more about bear canisters, bear safety, and what to do if you encounter a bear on the A.T. here. Report bear encounters here.

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