I have been to Glacier 6 times.
I’ve had close encounters with Griz all 6 times.
Worst was coming around a bend in the trail to see Mama and Baby Griz surprised at 50 feet. Luckily, we all ran different directions. I was 18 and stupid.
Now, wifey carries the bear spray. I carry the Ruger Blackhawk Flattop in .357 with Buffalo Bore hardcast.
Mama and baby, Mt. Brown trail, 1980.
Whale Creek trail Flathead on the West Side.
Going to the Sun Road.
Kintla, North shore trail, twice.
The last dirt road before the border, westbound. Three Griz at one time that day, surrounding the car.
Hopefully you appreciate that place - has to be one of the most beautiful areas on the planet.
I’m not against protecting self and loved ones. However, there has to be at least a few places where natural actions and reactions by wildlife aren’t punished with instant death.
If people cannot abide by that, they should stay away from the protected areas set up for protecting and PRESERVING them.
This isn’t “anti-gun”, “anti-self protection” or “anti-hunting” - it’s just basic conservation and appreciation.