I'm actually not sure about parts, but I would imagine you would probably have better luck in Idaho than you would in California.
Speaking on bears though bear spray is a fine enough deterrent. As long as you hang your food properly, you should be fine. I've never really had any issues in those areas when hiking.
Oh! Also,would hiking with a dog change these dynamics? Or still okay?
Please Login to reply.
Yes, but, you don't want your dog mauled by a bear, either. They must be trained well enough to not attack without your permission. If they are not, then, you risk the dog escalating a tense situation.
^ This. The temperment of the dog matters
