I spend a lot of time hiking in 'bear country'. We have quite a few black bears here in the Poconos. I have never ever had one approach me, quite the contrary. They want nothing to do with people. The few exceptions are when someone wanders between a mother and cubs. Mama will not be happy.
I find it hard to believe the bears in MI (where the OP is from) are much different in character than our PA beasts. Firecrackers would probably scare the bear away, but bear spray will probably be more than enough to deter an inquisitive bear.
One person I know was challenged by a bear during deer season. Tell your buddy to leave the snacks in the truck and things will be ok. | 
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