Q: Is it wise to hike without a guide in Alaska? We have hiked a lot as a family and want to hike Reed Lake Trail in Palmer. But since this is the wilderness, with brown bears, etc., I don't know how wise this is. If not, whom from the area do you recommend to take us out? —Janet

A: Janet, I wouldn’t worry in the least about doing this hike without a guide—plus, there are only a few places in Alaska where you can do guided hikes.

Indeed, the possibility of bears is what differentiates the Alaska wilderness from others—it changes the experience. But the reality is, the chances of a bear encounter are very slim. Bears are actually pretty shy, and will stay away from people unless they feel threatened.

When you’re hiking, it always a good idea to make gentle “human” noises—talking, clapping, even singing, which tells any nearby bears that you’re coming. If it's something that concerns you, I recommend buying some bear pepper spray at Mt. View Sports or some other retailer in Anchorage. (You can probably also buy it at outdoor-sports retailers at home).

For more tips on what to do if by chance you see a bear, look at our page on Bear Safety. And to learn more about how hiking is different in Alaska than it is in the Lower 48, see our page on Alaska Hiking.