[pct-l] Mountain lion vs. backpacker statistics

[mark v]

The whole discussion got me curious enough to do some research.  In this century, in the United States, documented, there have been only 3 injuries to adult hikers occurring from mountain lion attacks.  One was in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in CA (not on the PCT), one was in Big Bend NP in Texas, and the other was above Taos, NM.  No deaths.  

Mind you, there have been plenty of people attacked in other circumstances.  Out walking dogs, trail-running, biking.  Children are most at risk.  Vancouver Island is most at risk.  In the 1990s, Cuyamuca State Park (not far from the PCT in Section A) had attacks.  Lots of stalkings and initial charges, especially in Arizona, Colorado, and outside of LA and SF.   But for adult hikers and backpackers since 2000, 3 attacks, none on the PCT, no fatalities.

Happy hiking, and keep your guns off the trail, thanks.