Hiking Essentials
Hiking in Alaska is inherently more dangerous than most other places due to the remoteness, climate, wildlife, and other factors. It’s advised you always travel with the following essentials:
– Bear Spray
– Navigation (phone and/or map)
– Hydration
– Food/Nutrition
– First Aid Kit
– Sun Protection
– Rain Gear and Insulation
– Headlamp
Wildlife Encounters
Bears, moose, and other wildlife live around the Chilkat Valley, and it’s always possible to encounter them when hiking. To avoid dangerous wildlife encounters follow these guidelines:
– Hike with others, never alone
– Make noise (talk, sing, etc… so you don’t surprise any wildlife)
– Carry bear spray and know how to use it
– Never approach or feed wildlife, and keep any food you have on your person
– If you encounter a bear, never run. Walk away slowly, facing it, using a calm voice to let it know you’re human.
– If you encounter a moose, walk away slowly, and find an object (rock or tree) to hide behind if it charges.