HIKING -- A few years ago, I started recommending that hikers carry bear spray and keep it handy on their pack straps virtually everywhere they hike, not just in case of a bear encounter, but also for protection against cougars, wolves and the occasional crazed moose or marmot.

Check out this woman's recent experience while day hiking at Antoine Peak, which stands tall behind East Valley High School and close to civilization.

OK, so why WOULDN'T you carry bear spray?