The re-opening of the Cohutta Wilderness comes with new requirements for backpackers to tie their packs up at least 10 feet off the ground when staying in the area overnight. We ve posted signs at all the trailheads into the Cohutta Wilderness informing folks that this new regulation is in place, Gandy said, It is now up to the public to help us make sure the bears don t start coming back to the area because of an easy food source. Forest Service biologists do want to know about bear sightings within the Cohutta Wilderness. Tips for Avoiding Bears 1. Do not cook or store food in or near your tent.
Odors attract bears.
Pack out all your trash. Do not bury or try to burn non-combustibles. If a bear approaches, move your family and any food indoors immediately. If a bear approaches you, frighten it by yelling, banging pans together or throwing rocks. Do not run from a bear, back away slowly.