Sierra Blogging Post Archives

There's a new bill being proposed in Wyoming that would make it mandatory for hikers to carry bear spray in the backcountry. If it passes, it would be the first legislation of its kind.

Because black and grizzly bear encounters have been on the rise lately, some officials think bear spray may now be a necessity for all permitted backcountry hikers and campers. As we move closer and closer to bear territory and encroach on their space, we can expect even more potentially deadly encounters in the future.


Although there were only 44 fatalities from grizzly bear attacks in the 20th century, most of them happened in the last 20 years. That's a sure sign that humans and bears are getting a little too close for comfort.

If I was hiking in grizzly country you can be sure I'd be carrying bear spray. But is it right to require it by law?

What do you think? Yay or nay on the Wyoming bear spray law?