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State guide

Montana bear canister rules

3 Montana areas. 0 require a canister everywhere in the area; 2 do not require one. Rules are set by each land manager, not by the state.

Custer Gallatin NF IGBC list or courtesy inspection container, or a hang. US Forest ServiceCanister not required
Glacier National Park Backcountry food may be hung, kept in a designated NPS locker/hanging device, or secured in an IGBC-approved bear-resistant contai… National Park ServiceCanister required in parts
NCDE national forests IGBC list or district-ranger inspection; or other approved storage. US Forest ServiceCanister not required

Check a canister in Montana

Where are you hiking? Which canister?

Allowed, not required

BearVault BV ONE Adjustable in Custer Gallatin NF: accepted, but optional.

IGBC-certified.

Area rule IGBC list or courtesy inspection container, or a hang.

See every canister for Custer Gallatin NF

Checked 2026-10-26. Always verify with the land manager before you go.

Other states: California · Wyoming · Colorado · Alaska · Washington. Or browse all areas.