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Old 07-19-2008, 01:04 AM
 
60 posts, read 170,876 times
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Hi All,

I just posed a question on a different thread, but thought maybe it warrants its own. I don't live in Colorado yet but when I do I plan on doing some hiking.

So my questions: Would it be wise to carry a sidearm in case I run into a bear or mountain lion? I know it's recommended in parts of Oregon, but I don't know if it's an issue here.

Also, are there any laws on bringing a dog off leash on a hike? I have a giant, very friendly mix breed who would love to go with me, and of course I'd pick up after him.

Thanks for your responses.
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Old 07-19-2008, 10:05 AM
 
Location: Las Flores, Orange County, CA
26,338 posts, read 93,407,924 times
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For the dog thing, I think it depends on the location/trail/jurisdiction. If you have a place in mind I would just call them. For example, the Palmer Lake reservoir trail you might call Palmer Lake or El Paso County Sheriff. Not sure if dogs are allowed but I'm 99% sure if they are allowed they must be on a leash.
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Old 07-19-2008, 08:04 PM
 
Location: Colorado Springs
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As far as sidearms go. I have lived here all my life and have never run into a mountain lion or bear while hiking, camping or geo caching. Not to say you won't, but it is not very common.
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Old 07-20-2008, 03:21 AM
 
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Ok, thanks for the tips. I'll look into the leash laws and such when I am closer to actually hiking.
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Old 07-20-2008, 08:38 AM
 
Location: Virginia
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4th of July weekend we were camping up by Terryall and we saw a bear! Very cool, but first one we saw. Sighting can happen but I can't remember the last time I heard the news talk about a bear attack. Usually we hear about them getting into the trash on the west side or climbing someone's tree; but even then that isn't all that often.
You should be fine.
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Old 07-20-2008, 08:51 PM
 
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
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I always recommend a sidearm...but not for bear. More for the two-legged human predators one might encounter along the way.
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Old 07-21-2008, 12:26 AM
 
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Yeah, also a thought I had.
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Old 07-21-2008, 11:14 AM
 
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Dogs are usually allowed in around county parks (such as the Santa Fe trailhead at Palmer Lake) but must be on a leash. Once you are up in the National Forest land, the rules are a bit lax, but it's still kind to leash your dog if other people (and especially other dogs) are around, even if you think your dog is non-aggressive.

As for bears, you would be seeing a Black Bear if anything. Bear sightings are pretty rare in these parts, mountain lions even moreso. Carrying a sidearm is most definitely NOT a good idea, because:
a) If you do see a bear, you should NEVER, EVER try to shoot it. Just act respectful and keep a safe distance. If you want specific info about what to do in a bear encounter, please ask your local Mountain Park Ranger.
b) If you did shoot a bear (or a wild cat for that matter) it is highly unlikely that you would bring it down, or even deter it, in one shot. Even if you're a good shot, in the excitement in of a bear encounter it is unlikely that you would actually hit the bear, and much more likely that you would hit something, or someone, else.
c) Even as a means of self defense against other humans, a gun is a poor choice. Better to take a self-defense class, which will teach you how to avoid and escape from a dangerous (human) predator as opposed to just shooting at it.
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Old 07-21-2008, 11:19 AM
 
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Quote:
Originally Posted by treedonkey View Post
c) Even as a means of self defense against other humans, a gun is a poor choice. Better to take a self-defense class, which will teach you how to avoid and escape from a dangerous (human) predator as opposed to just shooting at it.
Me thinks you have seen too many kung fu movies. A firearm is the best way to defend yourself against a dangerous human predator.
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Old 07-21-2008, 11:48 AM
 
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Self-defense does not mean kung fu or karate or anything else like that. If you can't defend yourself without a gun then you are setting yourself up for serious trouble someday. A good self defense class can teach you how to avoid dangerous situations in the first place.

And, if you have children, what about them? Are you going to have them carry guns, too? Or are you going to give them an armed escort everywhere they go? Self defense principles can be applied by people of all ages and both genders to live safer, happier lives without the risks of a firearm.

Self-Defense
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