Hanging Food
Overview
Hanging food refers to suspending food and scented items from a tree or structure to reduce the likelihood of wildlife accessing them. It is a traditional backcountry food-storage method used when bear canisters, lockers, or other containment systems are unavailable.
Key points
- Used to keep food and scented items out of reach of wildlife.
- Often involves using a rope, a suitable branch, and a dry bag.
- Techniques vary, including the PCT method, counterbalance method, and simple hangs.
- Success depends on tree availability, branch strength, and local conditions.
- Not accepted as sufficient in some regulated areas that require approved canisters.
Details
Food hanging has long been a common practice in backcountry travel, particularly in forests where suitable tree branches exist. The standard goal is to place the food bag at least twelve feet above the ground and six feet away from the trunk or nearest branch. Implementation can be challenging in areas with short trees, dense vegetation, or poor branch selection.
Some land agencies mandate the use of hard-sided bear canisters, and in those areas a food hang is not considered compliant. Wildlife behavior, especially that of bears and smaller mammals, also influences the effectiveness of a food hang. Although hanging can reduce risks, it is not foolproof and requires careful execution.
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Illustrative hiking footage
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