Anyone here ever hiked or backpacked in the Bob Marshall Wilderness?

[cubrock]

I have done a “man trip” with each of my boys when they are in their teens. It is a rite of passage symbolizing their leaving boyhood and entering manhood. My youngest son’s trip is coming up. We initially were planning on a backpacking trip in the Smokies, but were recently inspired to look into doing one out West. One area we are looking hard at is the Bob Marshall Wilderness, particularly a hike involving the Chinese Wall.

I’ve been doing some reading and I know that hiking in the American West is a different animal than around here. Water availability is one of the key differences, along with how you keep your food bear proof.

With that said, I would love to hear any of your personal experiences and tips if you have backpacked out West, especially if you have done it in “The Bob.” Thanks in advance.

 

[bondjamesbond]

Never been there myself, always wanted to. Very remote wilderness area.
I understand the area has the highest population of Grizzles of the lower 48 states.
You will want to know from the locals how they deal with the bears since there is no open season to hunt the bears they probably have little or no fear of man.
Be safe, have fun, take lots of pics for us.

 

[Climberman]

Be aware of thunderstorms. Afternoon thunderstorms caused by the mountains are common and can roll in quickly. Its a good idea to plan your hike to be on the way back down some of the larger peaks by lunch if possible.

 

[SPST]

I've backpacked in RMNP. Like Climberman said, be aware of thunderstorms. You don't want to get caught above the tree line in one. For bears, do like you would for bears anywhere else, hang your food in a bear container away from your campsite.

 

[christyouthguy]

you should reach out to Pat McNamara, he goes every year.

https://www.tmacsinc.com/?fbclid=IwAR2qiIaQ2VL1vAEAPFzoavpR2Ru_ynIHUUh3qdv0LMx-ToxiHfWYBy2yBQg

 

[cubrock]

I've backpacked in RMNP. Like Climberman said, be aware of thunderstorms. You don't want to get caught above the tree line in one. For bears, do like you would for bears anywhere else, hang your food in a bear container away from your campsite.

My comment about bears came from something I read that made it sound like bear canisters were mandatory there. Based on other stuff I read, I think I misunderstood it being mandatory in The Bob, though many people recommend them.

 

[Crazy Carl]

you should reach out to Pat McNamara, he goes every year.

https://www.tmacsinc.com/?fbclid=IwAR2qiIaQ2VL1vAEAPFzoavpR2Ru_ynIHUUh3qdv0LMx-ToxiHfWYBy2yBQg

I was gonna say the same. He loves that stuff.