Georgia Appalachian Trail to require bear canisters in 2027

Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, overnight stays across Georgia’s Appalachian Trail corridor will require hard-sided, bear-resistant canisters; hangs and flexible bags will not qualify. Coverage includes overnight areas within a half-mile of the Trail and connected sites, so hikers should verify the exact corridor, compliant gear, and implementation details. Recent articles repeat the rule without adding a material change.