Hi all :)
I live in the Tahoe area, and that is where I hike/backpack 90% of the time. I currently own a Garcia bear barrel, but I'm thinking of getting an Ursack instead for the weight savings. I know that in some areas (Yosemite, King's Canyon etc.) bear barrels are required, and I don't mind carrying it should we venture into those areas. However, I'd like something lighter for our local trips if I can get away with it. I typically do 1 or 2 night trips with enough food for 2 humans & 2 dogs stored in the barrel, so for such short trips the barrel is usually mostly empty.
From my personal experience, I've only seen wild bears twice while out & about in the area: once at Spooner Lake (mother & 2 cubs!) and once at Northstar. Most other campers seem to be hanging their food as I don't see a lot of people with bear barrels on the trail. I'm rubbish at throwing, and don't fancy spending my whole evening trying to hang my food, so hanging is out for me. My question is this: are there any areas of Tahoe where it would be advisable to use a barrel instead of an Ursack? Or will I be pretty safe using an Ursack all over Tahoe as long as I tie it correctly and use an opsack inside?
