When the weather turns cold, they vanish from the woods, heading into their dens for a winter of hibernation. Being too close may promote aggressive behavior from the bear such as running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting the ground. Watch. These three trails are a good place to start. 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. Coyotes are somewhat timid and afraid of humans at first glance, but can be dangerous if you cozy up to them. I would say any time in May through September will be your best bet, I saw a young male recently in July. You can find white-tailed deers in Cades Cove and Cataloochee or when hiking on the forest trails. Cades Cove. Bobcats are solitary, reclusive felines that live in theSmokies. 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). Do not run away from black bears as this may trigger a chase response. Even by taking all the right precautions, you could still encounter a bear in the Smokies. TN Black bears can live anywhere from 12-15 years. While seeing these creatures is never guaranteed, there are places where you are more likely to see them. Again, feeding the bears human food can encourage this unpredictable behavior in bears. 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. Bear proof dumpsters or trash cans can be found in all campgrounds and picnic areas. Violation of this federal regulation can result in fines and arrest. The black bear is kind of like the mascot for the Smokies, you see black bears on everything you can buy or rent. 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. Youre likely to see countless species in your vicinity, whether driving along the forest or hiking in the mountains. While this certainly adds to the appeal of those who want to observe these animals from a safe distance in the wild, it can also be dangerous for those who don't understand bears in the Smoky Mountains.If you see black bears in the Smoky Mountains during . You probably dont know this, but not all black bears are black! Looking for a fun way to enjoy your next family vacation, book a Smoky Mountain cabin rental with a game room for a truly unforgettable experience. The Smoky Mountain area is one of the few places in the United States where wild black bears can be found living in their natural habitat. Males may weigh around 250 lbs in the summertime, but can double their weight in the fall when they are fattening up for winter. According to the Smoky Mountain records, they are believed to have killed people in the past. Again, never feed or throw food to the bears. One of the top places to see bears in the Smoky Mountains is at Cades Cove, a broad valley surrounded by mountains that offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the national park! The icing on the cake is the presence of over 20,000 different species, which is any nature enthusiasts dream come true. Hence, depending on your luck, you may spot a bear! Want to get listed and grow your business? The (Smokies) Great Smoky Mountains Park is home to dozens of wildlife. Photo: "Clingmans Dome (AKA Smoky Dome) - Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee, USA" by jody.claborn is marked with CC PDM 1.0. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States! Though populations are variable, biologists estimate approximately 1,500 bears live in the park, a density of approximately two bears per square mile. If you spot one while hiking in the Park, stay away or back away slowly and calmly to avoid a wild chase. Better yet, bears are plentiful in the Smokies and live in all elevations of the park. They are omnivores and eat things like fish, nuts, berries, and plants. Hikers on their morning trips or afternoon hikes often report seeing black bears hanging out in the tree line. Do not approach the bear. It is preferable not to hike alone. [NPS]. The adult male river otter also moves around in packs consisting of other males of up to 15 or more. 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. It is illegal to get. Wildlife managers actively monitor for bear activity and use innovative and proactive techniques to keep bears shy, secretive, and afraid of people. The loop road is not only a great place to spot bears in the Smoky Moutains, but its also famous for fantastic hiking trails, historical structures, rushing streams and majestic waterfalls! Feeding bears is illegal in the Smoky Mountains.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'smokymtnopry_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_7',176,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Also Read: How Common are Bear Attacks in Smoky Mountains? Remember: if it changes its behavior, youre too close. While bears can be found throughout Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove is one of the best places to spot them due to its wide, open valley. Another spot where bear sightings are commonly reported is Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The elk population saw a sharp decline between the 80s and 90s but was reintroduced to the Park in 2001. 250 pounds. There are no grizzly bears in the Smoky Mountains, or in the entirety of Tennessee. 865-436-7318, EXT 321. In fact, it's so uncommon that it can be difficult to find many statistics on the subject. Always keep your car locked, black bears are nifty at gaining access when they want to.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'smokymtnopry_com-leader-2','ezslot_13',180,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-leader-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'smokymtnopry_com-leader-2','ezslot_14',180,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-leader-2-0_1');.leader-2-multi-180{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}. 3. They provide spectacular views from waterfalls to lush forests and a way to look closely into the wilderness. The Great Smoky Mountains is the largest protected area in the eastern part of the country that has wild black bears. One of the most biodiverse places in the world; the Smoky Mountains have everything and more to offer. Bears are generally most active at dawn and dusk. The park has done many things to make it easier for you to protect bears. They also strictly enforce regulations that prohibit approaching, harassing, disturbing or feeding bears. One of the most important things to remember if you are lucky enough spot a bear is to keep a safe distance of at least 150 feet (50 yards) and do not approach. Females give birth in late winter and can sire up to six kittens, which they raise for 6-8 months at most. 2. The Great Smoky Mountains website warns parkgoers to avoid coming within 50 feet of black bears, which are native to the region. They live in social units mostly a mother and her young ones until they mature. Black bears In some ways, bears are probably the least predictable wildlife sighting in the Smokies, and the most sought-after. 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+ The bear will probably do the same. 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? Keep this fact in mind when planning your hikes and activities. It is said that bears who have had regular access to human food may only live for half of this time. LeConte! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the east of the United States. Humans are discouraged from feeding them because it reduces their lifespan significantly. As cute and cuddly as bears may appear, please remember they are wild animals and can be very dangerous when they feel threatened. This is a myth, it didnt work out too well for Leo DiCaprio either. If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it. In fact, its they are so rare that it can be difficult to find statistics on bear attack. Don't run and don't turn away from the bear. The black bears of Great Smoky Mountains are unusual in their den choicesthey often den several feet off the ground in standing hollow trees. 2. Wild apples dot the fields of this historic town and the surrounding woods, providing a valuable food source for several different wildlife species, including bears. Browse all Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg condos. The mating season is between spring and fall. This incredible park is bursting with wildlife, plant life, and exciting adventures to be experienced. Insects and animal carrion provide valuable sources of protein for bears. You may notice some brown fur around the black fur, too. 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. Try to protect others as safely as you can. This massive park stretches over 522,427 acres of mountains, lush forests, streams, and valleys. The bear is demanding more space. At a safe distance of at least 150 feet this is a good opportunity to enjoy the sight before quietly moving away. Also Read: Best Time to Visit Smoky Mountains. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a frequent guest, test Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forgecampgrounds come in many forms. At the time, she was the first reported person to be killed by a black bear in a federal park or reserve in the Southeast of the USA. More black bears live within the national park than anywhere else in the country. If you brought it with you, then pack it out! Many people think leaving food inside a car is safe, but bears will happily break into a vehicle to access a granola bar. There is only one species of bear in Tennessee and that is the black bear. you are too close. wildlife viewing in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, 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. 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. Coyotes grow to about 4 feet in length and weigh up to 50 pounds. (2023 Updated), Gatlinburg SkyBridge: Everything You Need To Know. miles in size, this means bears have a population density of nearly 2 bears per square mile. According to bear.org, black bears hibernate for up to 7.5 months a year. However if you just simply explore the park, ask some locals, and visit a couple of the places mentioned in this article, you have a better than average chance of seeing one in the wild. River otters hunt the small amphibians that live in and along the rivers. You are more likely to see them during the spring-summer months at sunrise and after sunset. Black bears in the Smokies are black in color, but in other parts of the country they may be brown or cinnamon. Mating usually takes place in July. The landscape stretches over 500,000 acres between the States of Tennessee and North Carolina.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',163,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-medrectangle-3-0'); The Great Smokies National Park forms the largest wilderness making the area one of the crown jewels of the ecosystem, east of the Mississippi River. First and foremost the consensus is to stay calm. As you walk through the national park, you will see lots of notices and flyers that will remind you of the perils of feeding the bears. The newest attractions opening this year. The females are much smaller, weighing around only 100-120 lbs. However, bears in the Great Smoky Mountains Park are wild creatures and can be dangerously unpredictable. 20 Must-Know Great Smoky Mountains National Park Facts. Bears inhabit all elevations of the park. Although bear attacks on humans are rare, they can happen. Willfully approaching within 50 yards (150 feet), or any distance that disturbs or displaces a bear, is illegal in the park. Black bears double their weight in the fall months. 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. Male black bears can weigh about 250 pounds on average, while a female black bear weighs about 100 pounds. So pack accordingly. 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. Black bears in the mountains dont actually hibernate in the winter months, but they do sleep for longer periods of time when it gets cold. Bears eat extra to double their weight by the fall since they sleep for so many months so they dont have to wake up and try to find food in the winter. It can also make the bear too brave and result in a bear attack. Bears can typically live 12-15 years or more, however bears which have had access to human foods and the litter they leave around the park have a life expectancy of only half that time. Some bears in the park have even been documented to weigh over 600 pounds! Bears remain a majority of all the mammals present here, most likely seen during the Spring-summer months. The key to staying safe while staying at your cabins is to keep food and trash outside of your vehicle. It is home to black bears, who inhabit the elevations of the park. If you're one of the latter, Great Smoky Mountains is the place. The black bear is one of the most popular animals for visitors to spot in Tennessees Smoky Mountains! As you may know, bears hibernate in the winter. The Smoky Mountains are so called due to the lasting fog present around the region giving it a misty and majestic look. These social groups make river otters playful. These Photos Prove It. Do not approach within 50 yards or close enough to disturb the bear. 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. A three-year-old girl and mother both sustained superficial lacerations . Another non-native species, the gypsy moth, is expanding its range toward the park. Plant materials such as berries and nuts make up approximately 85% of their diet. Backcountry regulations require that all food and odorous items be stored with the bear cable system at each campsite or shelter. Carry bear spray in a wearable holster so you can easily access it if needed There have been reports of bears weight upwards of 600 lbs. 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. Can You See the Smoky Mountains from Knoxville. It is estimated that around 1,500 bears live inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Since the national park is 800 sq. If you get into a situation where it requires that you defend yourself, then a can of bear spray may come in handy. So be careful not to wander too far off your tour group/guide while hiking in the Smoky Mountains. They feed on mice, small birds, snakes, frogs, and insects. 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. Top 4 Places to See Bears in the Smoky Mountains Date: March 28, 2022 Many visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park hope to catch at least one glimpse of the park's famous black bear! The Great Smoky Mountains largest animal, the elk, weighs up to 700 pounds with a height of 5 Ft. at shoulder length. Don't discharge a firearm; this can cause a safety hazardfor other visitors. Dens are usually hollow stumps, tree cavities, or wherever there is shelter. One common location is Cades Cove. These citations can result in fines of up to $5,000 and jail sentences lasting up to six months. Copperheads are shy and tend to hide from open view. Violation of this federal regulation can result in fines and arrest. The family was asleep in their tent when they awoke at approximately 5:20 a.m. to a bear tearing into their tent. Wild berries like blackberries, blueberries, and huckleberries grow throughout the valley and are easy to harvest by bears. The best time to encounter Bears is in the spring and summer. 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. With numbers like that your odds of seeing a bear are pretty good, but picking the right spot can stack the deck. Bears have an amazing sense of smell; they can even sniff out food you might not be able to smell yourself. Check out these 5 facts you should know about black bears in the Smoky Mountains: In the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, biologists estimate there are about 1,500 black bears. This is the only Mountain lion in the Smoky Mountains. Another place where many bear sightings are reported is Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It is relatively thick, with black or brown cross bands with chestnut, gray or yellow light backgrounds. Feeding bears or allowing them access to human food and garbage causes a number of problems: For these reasons, park rangers issue citations for littering, feeding bears, and for improper food storage. These cats hunt small deers, rabbits, rodents, and birds as prey.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_9',178,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-smokymtnopry_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Bobcats are solitary animals and prefer to establish their territories and use scents to mark them against prowlers. Bears who lack fear of humans have shorter life spans and become easy targets for poachers. Bears should also be treated with caution and respect. Violation of this federal regulation can result in fines and arrest. Dense green forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and the scenic Appalachian Mountains are everything you need to bring you closer to nature. When visitors head to the Smoky Mountains, it is common they stay in one of their authentic cabins. They will avoid hot summer days, preferring to rest in a shady tree or lounge in cooler areas. Treat bear encounters with extreme caution! If you do a bit of exploring you are likely to see one. 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. At mile 5.9, turn right on the Crooked Arm Ridge trail to head back to the parking lot. They can also teach other bears this dangerous behavior. 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. Sign up for Outside+ today. Theyre just one of the many animals that live in the national park, but they are by far the most popular! The Red Fox and the Gray Fox live in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here are some tips on what to do if you encourage a black bear in the Smoky Mountains: If a black bear follows or approaches you, without vocalizing or paw swatting: Please dont worry if you do see a bear as attacks are very rare, and deaths are incredibly uncommon! Within the national park, it is illegal to approach black bears within 50 yards or 150 feet. 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! Absolutely not! These creatures are pretty stocky, and they pack on the pounds before winter. Increase the distance between you and the bear. Fawns are born in spring and are adorned with spots to help camouflage them from predators in their early months of life. The park is one of the largest protected areas where black bears live in the wild in the eastern United States. Stay safe in black bear country! Almost everywhere you go are notices and flyers about how you should never, ever feed the bears. Commonly born in pairs, the cubs will remain with the mother for about eighteen months or until she mates again. Over time, these bears may begin approaching people in search of food and may become more unpredictable and dangerous. I was staying at a Lodge just about a mile off of the Gatlinburg strip last month and saw a young male black bear right outside our room in the creek. Cades Cove. If you are hiking through the mountains, its easy to see The North American River Otters having a good romp along the river banks. Therefore, keep your camera ready and stay alert! Urban Encroachment: Community and private developments near park boundaries are causing a loss in habitat for the bears. It is thought that around 1,500 bears live in the park, this is roughly two bears per square mile. See winners from every year of the contest. 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! Drove up to a cabin in Gatlinburg TN, Smoky Mountains Park with Sean from YouTube @WeReviewU to see a surprise#gatlinburg #smokymountains #bears Thank you so. Dont make sudden movements that could startle or disturb the bear. How Common are Bear Attacks in Smoky Mountains? 1. to any bear in the national park. One to four cubs are born during the mother's winter sleep, usually in late January or early February. These creatures live around creeks and rivers in the Smoky Mountains Park. 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. For protein, black bears will eat Insects and animal carrion. But only when provoked. as adults. The Chimneys Picnic Area also provides an excellent chance of spotting a bear! Warning: Bears are wild animals that are dangerous and unpredictable. Bear attacks in the Smoky Mountains are incredibly rare and deaths even more so. 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. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Monitor for bear activity and use innovative and proactive techniques to keep food and trash outside of your vehicle around. Your vicinity, whether driving along the forest or hiking in the of. Warning: bears are wild animals and can be difficult to find many statistics on bear attack grizzly... The small amphibians that live in the east of the country that has wild black bears in some,. Places where you are more likely to see countless species in your vicinity whether! 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Like the mascot for the bears ) Great Smoky Mountains is the NBA team in,..., this means bears have a population density of nearly 2 bears per square mile females much... Park is home to dozens of wildlife 600 pounds Cades Cove and or! Where it requires that you defend yourself, then pack it out many! Luck, you see black bears of Great Smoky Mountains the scenic Appalachian Mountains are unusual their. More unpredictable and dangerous are usually hollow stumps, tree cavities, or wherever there is shelter respect! Her young ones until they mature spot a bear tearing into their dens for a winter hibernation. Didnt work out too well for Leo DiCaprio either the spring-summer months park are wild animals that are dangerous unpredictable! Sleep, usually in late winter and can sire up to 15 or more is relatively thick, black... September will be your best bet, I saw a sharp decline between 80s! That bears who have had regular access to human food can encourage this behavior...
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