Safety & Wildlife

A backpacking guide, bear spray and a wolverine in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
A backpacking guide, bear spray and a wolverine in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Essential safety information for Alaska backcountry travel. Learn about bear encounters, wildlife behavior, river crossings, weather considerations, and how to stay safe in remote wilderness.

Safety in Alaska’s wilderness requires knowledge and preparation. Learn from experienced guides about bear encounters, wildlife behavior, river crossings, and the judgment calls that keep you safe in remote terrain.

Backpacking Lake Clark National Park, Alaska.

First Aid in the Backcountry

Essential backcountry first aid tips for wilderness travelers: stabilizing spine injuries, keeping patients warm and dry, and understanding basic versus advanced wilderness first aid. Learn practical strategies and course recommendations to stay prepared for common and critical situations in remote outdoor environments.

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Alaska brown bear charging, Katmai National Park, Alaska.

Bear Spray Effectiveness – How Effective is Bear Spray?

Bear spray is highly effective for deterring aggressive bears, safer than firearms, and essential for Alaska wilderness travel. This post covers research findings, real-world effectiveness, legal considerations, and practical tips for carrying and using bear spray safely, ensuring hikers and backpackers can enjoy bear country responsibly.

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Backpacking Malaspina Glacier Wrangell -St.Elias National Park, Alaska

Kennicott Glacier, Wrangell St. Elias National Park, Alaska

Solo winter hike on Kennicott Glacier’s west side reveals striking blue ice. Practical guidance on glacier travel safety, crampon selection, crevasse awareness, and the light physics behind deep blue glacial ice near McCarthy, Alaska.

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