I've discussed this topic with numerous individuals recently and thought I would see what the rest of you think....
It appears that a rather large number of people (including MANY hunters) have a debilitating fear of wandering off into the woods and getting lost, running into a bear, etc. I had the good fortune of growing up hunting in a province with no apex carnivores to worry about. Leaving well before dawn and getting home long after dark were routine even as a child (I was taught to be proficient with a compass very early on) and I have carried that confidence with me even after moving to the West and continuing my passion for the outdoors. I have had multiple close encounters with grizzlies and cougars but have never worried about running into them prior to heading into the bush. Am I the exception or the rule?
What do YOU do to counter your fears? Do YOU worry about bears or cats? Why do so many people stick to the well trodden paths instead of taking roads less travelled?
Just trying to generate some discussion and possibly ease some concerns for those out there who want to reach farther but are holding themselves back.