Re: Dangers of getting to isolated spots on the C&TS

All these stories and locations certainly stir my imagination, I would like to venture (adventure?) to some of these spots on a future trip State side. But Kevin raises a couple of points this newbie adventurer from down under has wondered about, on my couple of trips over there I haven't appeared to suffer any altitude issues, I live about 30' above sea level, but then I haven't tried a big hike, I did have a mad scramble up a hillside near Moffatt Tunnel for a photo that left me a bit winded, but unfortunately I can't see anyway if I can do a hike without trying said hike!
You guys mention quad bikes, I have/ride one at home so am very familiar, what are the legal requirements for quad bikes in NM and CO, would I have to truck one into say Osier to get to Cascade and does anyone hire them or do rides from Chama?
And most importantly, bears?, are they are a concern, do you guys see any on your hikes around CATS, a friend that lived in Ridgway told me some good stories about bears at his remote home so I am not keen on meeting one.

Wayne from Oz.