Trail Updates

04/21/2026

Update: Bailey Gap Shelter is closed due to bear activity (NOBO mile 660.9). Hikers should avoid this shelter and camping area, including not stopping here to eat lunch or take a break. Respecting bear-related closures like this one give bears the chance to seek natural food sources and revert back to wild behavior.

Keep in mind that bears can roam 20-40 miles a day in search of food. Practice good bear safety and use a bear canister no matter where you camp on the A.T.

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04/20/2026

The ATC received a report of a food-conditioned bear at Bailey Gap Shelter (NOBO mile 660.9) that showed very little fear of humans, despite being yelled at and hikers trying to drive it off. The bear got food from an improper PCT-style food hang and punctured holes in three Ursacks.

You can protect yourself, other hikers, and the bears by:

• Educating yourself on bear safety and proper food storage before leaving for the Trail.
• Exercising caution in areas with frequent bear activity.
• Properly storing all food, trash, and scented items at night in a bear canister. Never sleep with your food or trash.
• Keeping a clean camp by picking up crumbs and cleaning up spills.
• Packing out all trash and food waste.
• Never leaving unsecured food unattended - even for a moment such as a quick trip to the privy or to check out a view.
• Using a bear canister. Hard-sided bear canisters are the most reliable method of food storage on the A.T.

Please report bear encounters on the A.T. using our Bear Encounter Report form. Early intervention when there's a bear becoming habituated to humans protects hikers and the bears.