Chefprefers BLOG

In Australia, you grow used to the dangers of the bush. Venomous snakes slip through the grass, giant spiders lurk where you least expect them, and you learn to stay alert. During my orienteering days, I often travelled cross country through remote terrain without giving those hazards much thought. If you dwelt on them too much, you would never leave the trail.

British Columbia, however, presents a different challenge. Bears.

Locals often describe bears as oversized, curious dogs that are constantly searching for food. That was the advice a young assistant gave me at an outdoor store.

“Bears are like dogs.”

I was not entirely convinced.

My most memorable bear encounter happened while running along an isolated backcountry road in Algonquin Park. At the time, it felt both exhilarating and unsettling. The usual advice is simple: never approach a bear and never run from one. On that occasion, I managed to do both. To my surprise, the bear reacted less like a fearsome predator and more like a startled dog, turning and fleeing as I approached.

The people of British Columbia clearly have plenty of experience with bears. Warning signs are everywhere.

“Bears live here.”

If that message is not enough, you can carry bear spray for extra protection. I assume it works much like pepper spray, although I would rather not discover whether it sends a bear running or makes it even angrier.

Fortunately, the trails we have explored have been busy with hikers, which may have encouraged any nearby bears to keep their distance.

Although, one unforgettable moment on the Sea to Sky trails stopped us in our tracks. About 20 metres ahead, a dark shape crossed the path. My first reaction was, “Oh look, there’s a fox.” Then I realized it was a bear cub.

I never reached for my phone or thought about recording a video. Instead, I stood still and watched as the cub quietly and confidently disappeared into the woods. The encounter lasted only a few moments, but it will remain as one of the most memorable sights of our journey.

. In any doubt my motto is “Be aware, the bear is a dare. 

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