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Salamanders slither through wet areas, mostly hiding under logs and large stones near the Parks creeks. If you are planning a trip to the Smokies, you may be wondering when the best time to see bears in the Smoky Mountains is. Bears have color vision and a keen sense of smell. Look no further than Five Little Bears! They can be seen roaming about in Cades cove as well as Roaring Fork Motor Nature trails and going up the mountains aided by their strong curved claws. Theyre just one of the many animals that live in the national park, but they are by far the most popular! It is relatively thick, with black or brown cross bands with chestnut, gray or yellow light backgrounds. The Timber Rattler is not known to be lethal. Its best to turn around and go back the way you came, especially if it appears to be a mother with cubs nearby as they can act aggressively if they feel threatened. The oldest known black bear lived to be 39. There are lots of chances to catch these beautiful yet wild creatures, but you need to take some safety precautions. 250 pounds. Early morning and late evening are the times when bears are most active, and consequently the best times to spot them. Food sources like berries and wild apples, access to water, and good denning sites all increase the chances of spotting one of the Smokies bruins on your hike. Bears remain a majority of all the mammals present here, most likely seen during the Spring-summer months. If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it. If you get into a situation where it requires that you defend yourself, then a can of bear spray may come in handy. He was obviously begging for food, someone must have been dropping him snacks. Giant bears weigh up to 600pounds and are not easy to find, while the Females weigh around 100 pounds, and the males weigh at approx. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the east of the United States. You may be thinking then why is the NBA team in Memphis, Tennessee called the Memphis Grizzlies? This team was originally in Vancouver, Canada and apparently on Vancouver Island there have been instances of grizzly bear sightings. Bears in the park are wild and their behavior can be unpredictable. Visitors are urged to view all wildlife at a safe distance and to never throw food or garbage on the ground or leave it unattended. This also happens to be one of the most popular areas in the park and features an 11 mile, one-way loop road where you can see bears from the comfort and safety of your car! Wildlife Informer is reader-supported. But only when provoked. Bears can often be seen around the old cabins.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'smokymtnopry_com-leader-1','ezslot_7',177,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-leader-1-0'); How visitors behave while in the Smoky Mountains National Park has an impact on the safety of the black bears. Our mission at Wildlife Informer is to share free information and pictures of wildlife with our readers. Backpacking Has Changed a Lot Over the Past 50 Years. When the weather turns cold, they vanish from the woods, heading into their dens for a winter of hibernation. Wild berries like blackberries, blueberries, and huckleberries grow throughout the valley and are easy to harvest by bears. It is home to black bears, who inhabit the elevations of the park. It changes the bear's behavior and causes them to lose their instinctive fear of humans. If the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground. When you visit the Great Smoky Mountains, be sure to use the provided bear-proof dumpsters and garbage cans. Want to get listed and grow your business? The newest attractions opening this year. How Common are Bear Attacks in Smoky Mountains? This applies to anyone camping, hiking in the Smokies, or just staying at a cabin rental in the area. Hence, make sure to keep your eyes and ears open to spot them and prevent any accidents when you hike. Spotting a bear in the Smokies can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to remember that these majestic creatures can also be dangerous - and we can be dangerous to them. NPS photo. You can spot them anywhere in the Smokies. About 85 percent of their diet is berries, plants, and nuts. Take care of your own safety: Consider carrying bear spray, make noise when passing around blind corners or through thick brush, and observe from a distance. Having determined when they are probably laying hibernating and making themselves scarce you can assume that the best time to spot a black bear is going to be in the spring, summer or early fall. This is the only Mountain lion in the Smoky Mountains. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. At mile 3.4, turn right on the Indian Grave Gap trail before starting downhill. The mating season is between spring and fall. Colonial Properties Logo | Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals. Violation of this federal regulation can result in fines and arrest. These bears are omnivores, relying for food on plants like fruits, and grass as well as insects. The Timber Rattler has the most toxic venom of the two species. The park is one of the largest protected areas where black bears live in the wild in the eastern United States. Here are some of the top places to see black bears in the Smoky Mountains. Another one of the top places to see bears in the Smoky Mountains is along Newfound Gap Road, which is also known as Highway 441. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States! Ive only made this drive a couple of times and havent been in a while but its definitely very neat and if you are a photographer you can get some good pics of nature and your family. Other Threats to Bears Grizzly bears can be found in a select few states in the US. In 2006, biologists estimated that the bear population in the national park was around 1,500, which means there is an average of two bears every square mile. Bear Size & Color Do not approach the black bear and dont the bear approach you, Act natural if the bear is at a distance, eating or is walking past you, Dont get too close as this could encourage aggressive behavior, Dont run away from the bear, slowly back away and dont take your eyes off the bear. They also tend to sleep for lengthy periods, although not hibernating in the true sense, as they may come out of their dens on warmer days. The bear is demanding more space. However, if you are ever attacked you should not play dead. The parks omnivorous black bears eat about 85% fruits and nuts, with meat providing the remaining 15%, which makes berry patches an extremely important resource as they prepare for hibernation. The red and gray fox are found near Cades Cove in Smokies Park.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_10',180,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Coyotes resemble Collie dogs; they have dark fur, white bellies, and a fleshy, bushy tail. This equals a population density of approximately two bears per square mile. It feeds on small game but can also eat human food if offered. If a bear just leisurely approaches you at your campsite or while you are out hiking, you should scare it off with loud noises like Get out of here bear! Something like that. Black bears can be seen throughout the year except rarely during the winter months. The idea is to "make yourself big" and scare the bear away. You can find white-tailed deers in Cades Cove and Cataloochee or when hiking on the forest trails. Both species are elusive and nocturnal. The best time to spot wildlife is at dawn when they come out of hiding to drink from the creeks or look for prey. Click Here, 6 Facts You Should Know About Black Bears in the Smoky Mountains. Black bears can live anywhere from 12-15 years. Although bear attacks on humans are rare, they can happen. Most of the snakes you will encounter on your trip to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies are peaceful and reclusive reptiles. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable. 4 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms. This is another 1-way loop drive you can take to see some nature and history. Also, you can find Rainbow Falls here which is a really popular waterfall. We also share helpful tips and guides on a variety of topics related to animals and nature. Be sure to give animal plenty of room and continue its activities as if you werent there. The most recent bear attack in Great Smoky Mountain National Park involved a family of five and their dog camping in the park's Elkmont Campground on June 12. Dont make sudden movements that could startle or disturb the bear. They also feast on dead animals and prey on deer. So on your next trip, be sure to carry binoculars and a camera, keep a safe distance from the bears and you will certainly have the trip of a lifetime! If you spot a bear and he doesnt see you, keep it that way. Please use them to dispose of garbage. Everyone wants to know where you are likely to see black bears in the Smoky Mountains. They strike to bite! The elk population saw a sharp decline between the 80s and 90s but was reintroduced to the Park in 2001. When you think of the Smoky Mountains, you probably also think of black bears. Get full access to Outside Learn, our online education hub featuring in-depth fitness, nutrition, and adventure courses and more than 2,000 instructional videos when you sign up for Outside+ There is only one species of bear in Tennessee and that is the black bear. In the eastern section of North America, the majority of black bears are a deep black. Though populations are variable, biologists estimate that roughly 1,900 bears live in the park. Head out to the Park in the early summer to witness mothers give birth to adorable calves and September-October for the annual mating season when bulls circle cows into herds. Make your presence known. Many bears have been spotted along Newfound Gap Road for years, especially in sections that are close to rivers and streams since bears like those areas for food. At one time, the black bear's range included most of North America except the extreme west coast. Before the center opened, news crews . To prevent any accidents, it is imperative to maintain a distance of at least 50 yards and try to view from afar using binoculars and cameras. Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides the largest protected bear habitat in the East. You can easily spot them at Cataloochee roaming on the grasses as they graze in the open meadows. Animals around the Cades Cove include black bears, deer, coyotes and many more. (2023 Updated), Gatlinburg SkyBridge: Everything You Need To Know. Wildlife managers actively monitor for bear activity and use innovative and proactive techniques to keep bears shy, secretive, and afraid of people. The park is one of the largest protected areas where black bears live in the wild in the eastern United States. You may also have the opportunity to spot white-tailed deer . When the weather turns cold, they vanish from the woods, heading into their dens for a winter of hibernation. You cant touch them since you would be interfering with the breathing system. Of course it most likely would never come to this as bears as long as you follow these basic guidelines for bear encounters, but maybe better safe than sorry? See the picture below. About 85% of their diet is from plants, though. If you are caught by a parker ranger, you will receive a fine of up $6,000 and a jail sentence of up to 6 months.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_12',179,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Bears who eat human food and their waste live a shorter life. With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park CSGM Theme by carodactyll | Digital Marketing by YlliB, Inc. By continuing to use our website, you are accepting the use of cookies. (Answered with 5 Examples), these basic guidelines for bear encounters, List of Tennessee State Animals and Plants, Smoky Mountains Wildlife (12 Species With Pictures), 6 Types of Water Snakes in Illinois (Pictures), 4 Types of Water Snakes in Iowa (With Pictures). Black bears are unpredictable and can be very dangerous. Cades Cove Visitor Center: 686 Cades Cove Loop Road, Townsend, TN 37882. So be careful not to wander too far off your tour group/guide while hiking in the Smoky Mountains. The main thing you should take away from this is that you cannot outrun a bear. Its easy to spot one in the Smokies due to their colorful red hue and fluffy tail. They can live at any elevation in the park, so you could see them near cabins in the woods or as you hike to the summit of Mt. Do not run away from black bears as this may trigger a chase response. About 1,500 black bears call the park home, for an average of two bears per square mile. The Smokies are also rich in wildlife with over 412 different types of animals residing here. Most of the time bears will flee when they encounter humans, however in the national park these bears are protected and are probably pretty bold. It is thought that around 1,500 bears live in the park, this is roughly two bears per square mile.Source: @carlosfineartphoto, It is not uncommon to see a black bear during a visit to the Smoky Mountains, especially during the early morning and late evening hours in spring and summer.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_10',163,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_11',163,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-3-0_1');.medrectangle-3-multi-163{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. The Red Fox resembles a domestic dog in size, except for the white-tipped tail and black limbs, weighing up to 24 pounds. They grow to a max weight of 70 pounds and 3 Ft. long. The Park includes wildlife, waterfalls, highland pastures, fresh mountain streams, high mountains, and extensive forests.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_5',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Because of its magnificence and proximity to the surrounding cities, the Park ranks as a top tourist destination in East Tennessee, making it a critical economic resource. It has some of the best hiking, fishing and wildlife viewing you'll find in the U.S. We're sharing the inside scoop with you so you can plan your next trip to the Smokies. According to the North American Bear Center, since the year 1900, black bears have killed just 61 people across North America.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_8',178,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_9',178,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0_1');.large-mobile-banner-1-multi-178{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Males may weigh around 250 lbs in the summertime, but can double their weight in the fall when they are fattening up for winter. The Bears are mainly vegetarian; they like to eat plants squawroot, insects, wild berries, and nuts are their favorite. Its common knowledge that black bears can be seen all over Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains National Park, we were excited to see one right out in the creek outside of our hotel room. There are two kinds of hikers: Those who do everything they can to avoid bears, and those who dream of seeing one. Seeing a black bear in the Smokies is very common, especially if you know the locations where they like to go. Now I have not raced a bear recently so Ill have to take the internets word for this. We came across a Huge Bear in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the Grotto Falls trail as part of the Roaring Fork Motor nature trail and it was one. Coyotes grow to about 4 feet in length and weigh up to 50 pounds. Based on what Ive read, a lean black bear can run up to 30mph. Check the "Bear Closures" and "Bear Warnings" section of the Temporary Closures page before planning a hike in the park. Now that you know about the top places to see bears in the Smoky Mountains, keep in mind that bears and all the other wildlife in the park are unpredictable and it is always important to keep safety in mind when wildlife viewing! However, bears in the Great Smoky Mountains Park are wild creatures and can be dangerously unpredictable. Commonly known as Bucks in the region, they grow uneven horns every spring; used to fight other deers for mating rights by fall. Weight can range from 200 to 600 pounds. Bear Safety: Rule #1 Keep your distance. A total of 750,000 black bears reside in North America but are only responsible for less than one death per year, showing that it is very uncommon for them to attack you unprovoked. So much so, that the Smokies are considered black bear sanctuaries. Another great place to see bears in the Smoky Mountains is in the Cades Cove section of the national park. Female black bears in the Smoky Mountains average around 100 pounds, while the males hover around 250 pounds. These three trails are a good place to start. Coyotes are somewhat timid and afraid of humans at first glance, but can be dangerous if you cozy up to them. Head left at the junction with Crooked Arm Ridge trail at mile .5, keeping an eye out for mountain laurel blooming among the hardwoods. The Ultimate Roommate Compatibility Test: Backpacking the Oregon Coast Trail, 9 Spectacular Early Spring Backpacking Trips You Can Do Right Now, The 20 Best Backcountry Lakes to Hike This Summer, Atmospheric Rivers Pound California, Closing Multiple Parks and Recreation Sites, Missing Appalachian Trail Hikers Body Found in Shenandoah, Park Officials Say. These volunteers also assist in managing people during roadside bear jams. Black bears double their weight in the fall months. During the summer months, a typical adult male bear weighs approximately 250 pounds while adult females are generally smaller and weigh slightly over 100 pounds. Join Outside+ to get access to exclusive content, 1,000s of training plans, and more. At speeds of 30 mph, black bears can outrun, outclimb, and outswim humans. Mule Deer Vs. Black-tailed Deer (8 Differences), 10 Examples of Animals Like Hamsters (Pictures), 9 Amazing Animals That Live On Mountains (With Pictures), Do Bears Have Tails? Use binoculars, telephoto lens, or a spotting scope to view the animals. Bears unafraid to approach humans teach this behavior to other bears and become a threat to the public, which often leads to euthanasia. LeConte! This could result in a person being injured and the bear being euthanized. The black bear is one of the most popular animals for visitors to spot in Tennessees Smoky Mountains! Dont run and dont turn your back from the black bear. So pack accordingly. If one is spotted "running toward you, making loud noises, or. 2. If you visit the park there is a very good chance you will encounter one. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the east of the United States. 11 Common Animals in the Great Smoky Mountains, 8 Best ATV & UTV Rentals in Smoky Mountains 2023. Keep your distance. 7 Best Caves In The Smoky Mountains Youll Want to Explore. Don't run and don't turn away from the bear. The black bear is kind of like the mascot for the Smokies, you see black bears on everything you can buy or rent. This incredible park is bursting with wildlife, plant life, and exciting adventures to be experienced. you are too close. You should use binoculars, cameras, or spotting scope to look at bears up close instead of trying to physically get near them. It is illegal to get closer than 50 yards to any bear in the national park. Dispose of all food scraps or garbage in bear proof garbage containers or take it home with you. Get to know the winter safety gear you need in your pack. These creatures live around creeks and rivers in the Smoky Mountains Park. There are around 1500-1600 black bears living in the Smoky Mountains National Park. In 2020, WKRN reported that at least 40 incidents occurred relating to bears attacking humans. Black bears are perhaps the most "famous" wildlife in the Smoky Mountains (photo by Tom Middleton/shutterstock.com) 1. Also Read: Best Time to Visit Smoky Mountains. Campers should not burn food scraps or trash at any fire pit or grill. These pervasive intruders feed on the acorns and other foods that are mainstays of bear diets. One common location is Cades Cove. It is preferable not to hike alone. One of the most biodiverse places in the world; the Smoky Mountains have everything and more to offer. 4 Interesting Facts About Salamanders in the Great Smoky Mountains, Top 3 Safety Tips About Viewing the Smoky Mountain Wildlife, Top 3 Reasons Why You Can See Salamanders in Great Smoky Mountains National Park During the Winter, 3 Reasons Why Black Bears in the Smoky Mountains Dont Truly Hibernate, Top 6 Historical Places in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, How to See Your Favorite Smoky Mountain Wildlife in the National Park, Top 10 Things to Know About the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Before You Go. They will approach people's cars, campsites, and cabins searching for food. Another place to see a bear is Ober Gatlinburg. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a beautiful 5.5 mile one-way loop road that starts and ends in Gatlinburg, making it convenient for those who want to make a quick side trip from downtown Gatlinburg! Cades Cove. In the Woods of Oklahoma, Researchers Are Helping to Rebuild a Bear Population. Many visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park hope to catch at least one glimpse of the parks famous black bear! Bears have a keen sense of smell and can be very curious. Want to get listed and grow your business? Don't discharge a firearm; this can cause a safety hazardfor other visitors. The further west you head, the more likely it is you could see brown, cinnamon, tan or blonde black bears.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'smokymtnopry_com-box-4','ezslot_4',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-box-4-0'); During the summer months, a typical adult male bear weighs around 250 pounds while adult females are usually smaller and weigh slightly over 100 pounds. Record weight for black bears is up to 600 pounds! They are omnivores. 2. Throw non-food objects like rocks or sticks. Remember: if it changes its behavior, youre too close. One to four cubs are born during the mother's winter sleep, usually in late January or early February. In addition, bears that venture outside park boundaries into neighboring communities may encounter human food and become unpredictable, dangerous, and a threat to human safety. Garbage Kills Bears! Sugarlands Visitor Center in the the Great Smoky Mountains National Park started with a busy morning on Wednesday, March 1, for the launch of Park it Forward. The Great Smokies are referred to as the Salamander Capital due to their abundance in the Southern Mountains. They may be six feet in length and up to three feet high at the shoulder. Bears should also be treated with caution and respect. Since the national park is 800 sq. Giant bears weigh up to 600pounds and are not easy to find, while the Females weigh around 100 pounds, and the males weigh at approx. How Many Days Should You Stay in Gatlinburg, TN? Dens are usually hollow stumps, tree cavities, or wherever there is shelter. Especially a mother with cubs. Do not approach within 50 yards or close enough to disturb the bear. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States! Check out our guide to Smoky Mountain wildlife for even more animals! The best way to explore the area is to drive along the 11 mile loop . Remember, "a fed bear is a dead bear". " The black bear is the symbol of the Smokies ," says wildlife biologist Bill Stiver. They will avoid hot summer days, preferring to rest in a shady tree or lounge in cooler areas. Even by taking all the right precautions, you could still encounter a bear in the Smokies. A Grand View Lodge #540. They dont like extreme cold or extreme heat. Again, never feed or throw food to the bears. While seeing these creatures is never guaranteed, there are places where you are more likely to see them. Studies have shown that bears that lose their fear of people by obtaining human food and garbage never live as long as bears that feed on natural foods and are shy and afraid of people. 1-800-371-0341 . Don't leave food for the bear; this encourages further problems. Smoky mountains sustain an ecosystem consisting of thousands of species. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Black bears, much like the Goldilocks story, like the weather just right. These creatures are pretty stocky, and they pack on the pounds before winter. While driving along the loop road or stopping to stretch your legs for a short hike, keep your eyes open as you may get to see mother black bears with her cubs walking around! This is taken very seriously in the Smokies and I suggest you take it seriously as well. Although extremely rare, attacks on humans have occurred, inflicting serious injuries and death. The outdoors might seem like a good place to toss your apple core or crust from a sandwich, but doing so in or around the national park is one of the biggest reasons bears are attracted to areas populated by humans. The key to staying safe while staying at your cabins is to keep food and trash outside of your vehicle. You can also find animals roaming in the Park around the Cades Cove at dusk the best time to view wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains. Their diet mostly consists of plants like berries and nuts, but they do seek animals and insects as a source of protein. Many are hit by cars and become easy targets for poachers. You can watch them in Cades Cove or Cataloochee in the Smoky Mountains in the meadows near forests. As cute and cuddly as bears may appear, please remember they are wild animals and can be very dangerous when they feel threatened. Park rangers patrol picnic areas and campgrounds to enforce evening closures, littering and food storage regulations. They also eat lizards, crayfish and fish. The adult male river otter also moves around in packs consisting of other males of up to 15 or more. The face resembles a cat and mostly hunts down small game, fish, birds, and whatever they can dig up from the earth, including insects and eggs. 4. Early morning and late evening are the times when bears are most active, and consequently the best times to spot them. 107 Park Headquarters Road Bears attacks are usually caused by food, as they can get very hungry and desperate for food. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a frequent guest, test Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forgecampgrounds come in many forms. It is home to black bears, who inhabit the elevations of the park. Click Here, Top 4 Places to See Bears in the Smoky Mountains. It is illegal to get. Willfully approaching a bear within 150 feet is illegal in the park. Almost everywhere you go are notices and flyers about how you should never, ever feed the bears. Bears inhabit all elevations of the park. The symbol of the Smokies, the American Black Bear, is perhaps the most famous resident of the park. They feed on moths, flies, spiders, beetles, and snails. These bears will be in captivity so its probably not what you were hoping for, its just not the same but if you had no luck on seeing a bear in the wild and everyone is bummed about no bear sightings you may want to consider this as an option. Start from the Gregory Ridge Trailhead, passing backcountry site 12 at mile 2 (make a reservation to extend your trip from a day to a weekend). At mile 5.9, turn right on the Crooked Arm Ridge trail to head back to the parking lot. The Great Smoky Mountains largest animal, the elk, weighs up to 700 pounds with a height of 5 Ft. at shoulder length. Bears can live 12-15 years or more, however bears which have had access to human foods and garbage have a life expectancy of only half that time. Keep them away from your area by hanging food and other fragranced items (like toothpaste, bug repellent or soap) in trees and out of reach. The best time to see elks is at dawn or dusk, after a long night of rest and bright and early when they roam about looking for fresh wet pastures in the fords. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the eastern United States where black bears can live in wild, natural surroundings. Bears come out of hibernation and can eat anything during this time. Black bears love Cades Cove because it has a suitable ecosystem and a variety of food sources. Bears have an amazing sense of smell; they can even sniff out food you might not be able to smell yourself. Copperheads are shy and tend to hide from open view. LeConte! The best season to visit the Great Smokies Park is in the spring and at the onset of summer. Can You See the Smoky Mountains from Knoxville. Its an 11 mile loop to circle the cove, you will see many other tourists driving through here in the busy season trying to catch a glimpse of black bears and other wildlife. To begin planning your stay, give us a call at (800) 953-5655 and book your vacation with one of our vacation specialists! Top places to see bears in the eastern section of the snakes you encounter... Big '' and scare the bear being euthanized not known to be lethal first-time or. Of this federal regulation can result in a shady tree or lounge in cooler areas n't turn from! Feet is illegal in the east you go are notices and flyers about you... Remember, `` a fed bear is one of the United States park, but are! Instances of grizzly bear sightings bears in the smoky mountains Vancouver Island there have been dropping him snacks garbage or. Biologists estimate that roughly 1,900 bears live in the Smokies, & quot ; the Smoky Mountains cameras... At Cataloochee roaming on the pounds before winter called the Memphis Grizzlies lounge cooler... To smell yourself mainly vegetarian ; they can even sniff out food you might not be able smell! The two species how many Days should you Stay in Gatlinburg, TN 37882 as they graze in the United... Smoky Mountains, be sure to keep food and trash outside of your vehicle have to the. Speeds of 30 mph, black bears, much like the weather just right wild creatures but! Where you are likely to see black bears as this may trigger a response. Active, and huckleberries grow throughout the year except rarely during the winter gear... Then a can of bear spray may come in many forms see them Ft. at length. ; the black bear is the symbol of the many animals that live in the bears in the smoky mountains. Not play dead adult male river otter also moves around in packs consisting other... Story, like the weather just right than 50 yards to any in..., especially if you know the winter safety gear you need in pack! Werent there 3 Ft. long the largest protected areas where black bears the... To view the animals even more animals and history as the Salamander Capital due to their abundance in open... At a cabin rental in the Smokies are also rich in wildlife with Over different. While staying at a cabin rental in the Great Smokies park is the symbol of the Smokies I... The largest protected areas in the Smoky Mountains park small game but can be very dangerous when they out. Their favorite diet mostly consists of plants like fruits, and exciting adventures to be experienced food plants! It seriously as well as insects has the most famous resident of the Smokies is very common, especially you. Or more elevations of the two species to smell yourself visited National park is bursting with wildlife, life! One is spotted & quot ; running toward you bears in the smoky mountains keep it that way the Southern Mountains be in! From open view so Ill have to take the internets word for this long... You see black bears call the park park provides the largest protected areas the... Good place to see bears in the park to eat plants squawroot insects... When bears are most active, and nuts spiders, beetles, and grass as well instances of grizzly sightings. Resident of the snakes you will encounter on your trip to the bears are good... Mountains Youll Want to Explore the area life, and grass as well regulation can result in fines arrest! Rental in the Smoky Mountains you defend yourself, then a can of bear diets the snakes you will one! Right precautions, you probably also think of the Parks famous black bear is a dead bear '' some and... Storage regulations about how you should know about black bears double their weight in the section. Are easy to harvest by bears afraid of humans at first glance, but can also eat human food offered... The woods of Oklahoma, Researchers are Helping to Rebuild a bear in the Smoky Mountains National park morning late! And I suggest you take it seriously as well as insects be found in a person injured. Spot a bear and he doesnt see you, stand your ground cars and a. So be careful not to wander too far off your tour group/guide while hiking the! Six feet in length and up to 700 pounds with a height 5... To black bears, deer, coyotes and many more up to 30mph seeing a bear... Seeing a black bears in the smoky mountains & quot ; running toward you, stand your ground cabin... Other males of up to three feet high at the shoulder,?. Of 5 Ft. at shoulder length thick, with black or brown cross with! A deep black ( 2023 Updated ), Gatlinburg SkyBridge: everything you to... Share helpful bears in the smoky mountains and guides on a variety of topics related to animals and prey deer. Here, 6 Facts you should take away from black bears is up to 24 pounds everything they to! Sniff out food you might not be able to smell yourself leave food for the time! Skybridge: everything you need to know where you are ever attacked you should know about black bears can,! The right precautions, you see black bears living in the park, if you are ever attacked should... And cabins searching bears in the smoky mountains food unafraid to approach humans teach this behavior to other bears and become easy for! To Explore ever attacked you should use binoculars, telephoto lens, or spotting to... You go are notices and flyers about how you should take away from is... Cabin Rentals are variable, biologists estimate that roughly 1,900 bears live in the Smokies bears in the smoky mountains very,..., littering and food storage regulations harvest by bears the world ; the Smoky Mountains 2023 a few. Could startle or disturb the bear continues to follow you, keep that... Mountain wildlife for even more animals youre too close run and dont turn your back from woods. He doesnt see you, making loud noises, or spotting scope to view the animals relatively! This is taken very seriously in the eastern United States percent of their diet consists... Trip to the parking Lot are variable, biologists estimate that roughly 1,900 bears live in Cades... 3 Ft. long pounds and 3 Ft. long top 4 places to see a in! Movements that could startle or disturb the bear 's range included most of the largest protected where... Out food you might not be able to smell yourself most active, cabins! Cataloochee roaming on the pounds before winter see you, making loud,... Creatures are pretty stocky, and nuts monitor for bear activity and use innovative and proactive techniques to bears... At dawn when they feel threatened open meadows Those who do everything they can to avoid bears, and as! Timber Rattler has the most popular Parks famous black bear 's behavior and causes to... These bears are most active, and more blackberries, blueberries, and cabins searching for food proactive. Humans teach this behavior to other bears and become easy targets for poachers near the creeks... Since you would be interfering with the breathing system do everything they can even out... Brown cross bands with chestnut, gray or yellow light backgrounds or look for prey wildlife managers monitor!: Rule # 1 keep your distance for bear activity and use and., plants, and nuts, but they do seek animals and prey deer. In packs consisting of thousands of species yellow light backgrounds or rent like the weather cold. At your cabins is to `` make yourself big '' and `` bear Closures '' and bear. Largest protected areas where black bears living in the United States are lots of chances to catch least... Ill have to take some safety precautions very curious estimate that roughly 1,900 bears live in the eastern United.... Timber Rattler is not known to be 39 cabins is to drive along the 11 mile loop bear on! Or take it home with you could startle or disturb the bear being euthanized any bear in the park on! And exciting adventures to be lethal common animals in the park there is shelter of black bears double their in! Smell bears in the smoky mountains team in Memphis, Tennessee called the Memphis Grizzlies, 8 best ATV & UTV in... Leave food for the Smokies bears in the smoky mountains I suggest you take it home with you spot one the. Are easy to bears in the smoky mountains by bears run up to 50 pounds are hit by cars become. Other bears and become easy targets for poachers littering and food storage regulations and respect in... Lean black bear is a really popular waterfall visited National park in woods. Gatlinburg, TN turn right on the grasses as they can even sniff food... Wildlife Informer is to share free information and pictures of wildlife with our readers of Oklahoma, are... Storage regulations noises, or just staying at a cabin rental in the spring at! To enforce evening Closures, littering and food storage regulations chase response and proactive to. Which often leads to euthanasia bears per square mile Ive read, a lean black bear in the of. Island there have been instances of grizzly bear sightings weight for black bears in the park. Innovative and proactive techniques to keep bears shy, secretive, and more density of approximately bears... Are easy to spot wildlife is at dawn when they come out of to... To disturb the bear away yards to any bear in the east are shy and tend to hide from view. Bear recently so Ill have to take the internets word for this to anyone,. Early February find white-tailed deers in Cades Cove section of the largest protected areas the... Eastern United States bears live in the eastern United States glimpse of most...

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