Why did the bear cross the bridge? To get to the other side, and nothing more, we hope! During the winter, some bears will come and go from hibernation, while others may just never tuck in for the season if there’s enough food to go around. This means that, just like us, they’re willing to wander through the snow from time to time to see what they can find. It’s unclear whether they appreciate Yosemite Falls in the same manner that we do this time of year, but we certainly do know that they’ll enjoy your lunch, perhaps more so than you, if they can get to it. Since it’s bad for both you and the bear if the bear succeeds, here are some food storage guidelines that’ll keep everyone happy and healthy during your winter visit to Yosemite: ❄Please keep all food and scented items, regardless of packaging, within arm’s reach. If there’s food in your pack or cooler, that means your pack or cooler is within arm’s reach. ❄Food and scented items can be stored out of sight in your vehicle during the day. Overnight, please store these items inside your hotel room with windows closed or secured in a food locker. ❄Dispose of all trash in proper bear-resistant trash can or dumpster, reattaching the clip of the can or dumpster if it has one. If no trash can is available, please pack your trash with you until you find one. ❄Maintain a safe and respectful distance of about fifty yards away from any bear you may encounter. If you are unable to safely retreat if a bear approaches within that distance, please scare it away by shouting loudly and aggressively. ❄Please report bear encounters by calling 209/372-0322. If a bear is lingering in a developed area or is trying to acquire human food, call 911. These practices encourage our bears to have longer, healthier lives. Click the link in our bio to read more about food storage policies and to learn more about how you can protect these beloved Yosemite creatures at keepbearswild.org. #yosemitenps #yosemite #keepbearswild