Everyone has their preference. I've guided in Alaska and a few western states as well as hunted them. Not near as much experience as some members here but I prefer my ruger SRH Alaskan in 454casull 2.25" Bbl. There may be that one special situation up close and personal where you get surprised in thick brush and only get one shot. Put one 10mm round in a 11' bear with less than ideal shot placement as your getting mauled despite how much you've practiced with your handgun and see how it goes. There is a reason guides carry .375s as a minimum rifle caliber. When you enter a true wilderness up North you are now in the natural selection pool right there with the wildlife. I wish death by bear on no man but if it happens to you because you were underguned in a overpopulated world full of great adivise from ppl that have been there seen that. I'll write it off to Darwinism.
Keep in mind that Phil S carries his 06 all the time for back up and there isn't anyone on this earth more bruin experienced than he.