Up there, a gun means a rifle or shotgun, which is darn awkward when you're bushwhacking. I can understand the decision to leave it behind. Bear spray would be a reasonable compromise -- certainly better than nothing.

Aside: In the more populated (southern) areas of Canada, the RCMP are concerned when people carry rifles/shotguns in their vehicles (though it's legal if you are licensed and they are properly secured). As you go north, into the unpopulated reaches, I've been told that the RCMP are more concerned if you don't have a rifle/shotgun.