This illustrates the folly of not having some means to protect yourself in bear country. Plainly, the authorities charged with your safety are not going to be able to help you. I've almost always carried a rifle or pistol (depending on legality, of course) when in bear country. I have never had a need to shoot one but I would have felt pretty stupid if I had the need and didn't have the means. In this instance, firearms are prohibited in national parks (a good reason to strike them off your hiking list), so I don't know what the answer is. As for the electronic devices, Grandpa didn't need one; I don't either! GD
