The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to one of the largest black bear populations in the Eastern United States. With over 1,500 bears living in the park, it presents excellent opportunities for visitors to spot these amazing animals in their natural habitat.
As avid campers and wildlife enthusiasts who have traveled to parks across 48 states, my family and I have been fortunate to observe over 150 bears in the wild over the years.
Believe it or not, but of all the places we've been, the Great Smokies has offered us the most frequent and rewarding bear sightings! Even compared to renowned bear habitats like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and Glacier.
In the following article, I share details on locations throughout the park that have proven to be prime bear-watching territory based on my family's experiences and sightings reported by other park visitors.
And remember, wherever you are in the park - pay close attention along roadsides, in fields, or near streams, and you stand a good chance of glimpsing these furry park residents.
1. Cades Cove
Cades Cove is the best spot to see American black bears, all thanks to various food sources around the area.
The main spot for bear sightings is the 11-mile loop road that wraps around the cove, particularly near berry patches and old orchards where bears are often found feeding.
Don't forget about the area around the Cades Cove Visitor Center and the Cable Mill historic area, too. These spots are especially wonderful for early morning or late afternoon bear sightings!
2. Newfound Gap Road
Another amazing spot to see bears in the Great Smoky Mountains is Newfound Gap Road, which goes from Gatlinburg to Cherokee, North Carolina, and passes through the park.
A good place to look for bears is near Campbell Overlook, about 4 miles in.
The road gets pretty high, about 3,000 feet up, and has some sharp turns, so drive carefully. There are many places to pull over and look around, so use them to check for wildlife safely.
3. Roaring Fork Nature Trail
This quieter trail, away from crowded areas like Cades Cove, provides a more intimate wildlife-watching experience.
It's a short drive from Gatlinburg and takes you through a beautiful forested area with streams, waterfalls, and old log cabins. It's a one-way loop road, so you can take your time and enjoy the sights.
Apparently, bears love the berries and nuts growing around the area!
4. Little River Road
This road stretches between the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg and the town of Townsend.
The areas around the pull-offs and picnic spots along Little River Road are good places to keep an eye out for bears just before dusk.
Bears might also be seen foraging for food or crossing the road, so it's important to drive carefully and stay alert.
While Little River Road provides opportunities for bear sightings, it also offers access to several popular trails and landmarks, such as the trailheads to Laurel Falls and the Elkmont Historic District.
5. Cataloochee Valley
This secluded valley, located on the North Carolina side of the park, is less frequented by tourists, offering a tranquil environment for those seeking to observe wildlife.
This quieter section of the park, with its diverse landscapes of lush forests and open meadows, creates an ideal environment for bears.
The area's rich history, with preserved historic buildings and open meadows, adds to its charm!
6. Three Bears General Store In Pigeon Forge
Who would think that your trip to the Three Bears General Store in Pigeon Forge could turn into an exciting bear-watching adventure?
Nestled in the bustling town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, this store offers you more than just a shopping experience. It's home to a unique attraction where you can safely watch live bears up close!
The store features a special enclosure where visitors can observe these magnificent creatures safely.
While it's a different experience from spotting bears in the wild in the Great Smoky Mountains, this experience still provides a unique and interactive way to appreciate the charm of bears.
Other Places To Spot Bears
We've covered some of the most well-known spots, but do you know lesser-known spots like Little Cataloochee Trail and Gregory Bald?
These places are tucked away in the Great Smoky Mountains, so you may not know these trails well, but here are the deets!
Little Cataloochee Trail
The Little Cataloochee Trail is a bit off the beaten path, making it a hidden gem for those hoping to spot black bears in a quieter setting.
As you wander this trail, keep an eye out near the old orchards—bears love to forage there, and you might just get lucky.
Gregory Bald
Then there's Gregory Bald, famous for its stunning flame azaleas in June. This area not only draws in nature enthusiasts for its flowers but also attracts black bears.
A hike up to Gregory Bald also rewards you with breathtaking views to boot!
If the idea of wandering around waterfalls lights up your adventurous heart, then you're in for a delightful journey within the Great Smoky Mountains.
We've put together a collection of waterfall hikes here that are perfectly aligned with your thirst for adventure!
Being "Bear Aware" in the Great Smoky Mountains
Before you even spot a bear, it's essential to practice "bear awareness" to safely enjoy your hike and protect these magnificent creatures. Here are some tips to make your presence known and avoid surprising a bear:
- Make Noise: As you move through bear habitats, make noise to avoid startling bears. Talk loudly, clap, or sing, especially when moving through dense vegetation or near streams where your footsteps might be muffled.
- Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings. Look out for bear signs such as tracks, scat, or overturned rocks and logs. The more alert you are, the less likely you are to stumble upon a bear unexpectedly.
- Secure Your Food: Bears have an incredible sense of smell. Store food, garbage, and scented items in bear-proof containers or vehicles. Never leave food unattended, as it can attract bears to your area.
- Hike in Groups: Bears are more likely to avoid larger groups of people. Hiking in groups is not only safer in terms of wildlife encounters but also in case of emergencies.
- Know the Season: Bear activity can vary with the seasons. Spring and early summer may see bears more actively searching for food while preparing for fall hibernation. Adjust your behavior accordingly.
Incorporating these practices into your adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains not only enhances your safety but also contributes to the conservation efforts for these beautiful animals. Always remember, we're visitors in their home.
How To React When You Spot A Bear
Discovering a bear in the Great Smoky Mountains can be an exhilarating experience! Remember, these are wild animals, so it's crucial to respect their space.
- Keep Your Distance: Always stay at least 50 yards away from the bear. If you stumble upon one unexpectedly, don't panic. Gently back away and give it plenty of room.
- Stay Calm: Speak in a calm, firm voice to let the bear know you're a human, and slowly wave your arms. Avoid running or making sudden movements, which could trigger a chase.
- Avoid Eye Contact: While maintaining awareness, don't lock eyes with the bear. They may perceive this as a threat.
- Group Up: If you're hiking with others, gather together. You'll appear larger and less like prey as a group.
When Is The Best Time To Spot Bears In The Smokies?
If you're yearning for a glimpse of the majestic black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains, timing is key.
Spring and summer are the prime windows to spot these wild creatures.
The bears emerge from hibernation in the spring, eager to fill their bellies. Sightings ramp up as they become more active during the lush summer months, foraging far and wide.
Early morning and evening hours enhance your chances, as bears tend to be most active during these cooler parts of the day.
Fall is also a good time for bear spotting, as the bears are moving around in search of food, so they can fatten up before hibernating during the winter.
Wrapping Up Your Bear Exploration in the Great Smokies
Seeing a black bear in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. With an estimated 1,500 bears calling the Great Smokies home, your chances of spotting one are quite good if you know where to look.
However, bear behavior is unpredictable, and sightings can vary greatly depending on many factors, including the time of day, weather, and human activity.
Even if you get unlucky and don't spot a bear, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a rich diversity of wildlife and stunning landscapes that are worth exploring.
From majestic forests and wildflowers to other wildlife like elk, deer, and numerous bird species, there's always something incredible to see!