Dutchman, the new owners, Hancock Timber Resources, will sell you a permit for access to that area, spring through fall. It's over $100, so its not really lost. There are other ways to reach the upper other place you mentioned, too.

I've always found carrying to be annoying. Even the little snub .38's or mini-Glocks are heavy and annoying. I find it real tough to carry when wearing waders.

If anything, I might put the .38 S&W +p (glazers, hyroshocks, and a couple of Corbons for kicks and giggles) in my backpack. Doesn't happen often as I almost never feel the need to carry.

I was truly worried about a cougar or bear, I'd bring along my "Social Shotgun", loaded up with 00 buck and sabo slugs. Pistols are not gonna do crap to a cougar or bear.

Yup, the cities are where the animals are, unfortunately. I worry more when my daughter goes to the mall than when she goes to the woods.

Even if you wanted to, your government wouldn't let you.

Tell that to all the people up here and down there who aren't liscenced to have/carry guns