However, black bears are wild animals and should always be treated with caution and respect. Understanding proper bear safety helps protect both your family and the bears that call the Smokies home.
The following tips are based on recommendations from the National Park Service.
Never Approach a Bear
If you see a black bear in the Smokies, do not approach it. In fact, it is illegal to intentionally come within 50 yards (150 feet) of a bear inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Even bears that appear calm or uninterested can react unpredictably if they feel threatened or cornered. Never try to take close-up photos, feed a bear, or move closer for a better view.
If a bear notices you:
- Stay calm.
- Back away slowly.
- Keep the bear in sight.
- Speak in a calm, firm voice.
- Give the bear plenty of space to leave the area.
Do not run. Running can trigger a chase response. Most bears simply want space and will move away once they realize you are not a threat.
If a Bear Approaches You
Occasionally, a bear may continue moving toward people, especially if it has become accustomed to human food. If a bear follows you without showing aggressive behavior:
- Change direction and create distance.
- Stay together as a group.
- Make yourself appear larger by raising your arms.
- Speak loudly and firmly.
- If necessary, shout or make noise to scare the bear away.
Never turn your back on a bear, and never run away. Standing your ground while slowly backing away is usually the safest response.
Keep Food and Trash Secure
Most negative bear encounters happen because bears are attracted to food or garbage. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and quickly learn where easy meals can be found.
While hiking or picnicking:
- Never leave food unattended.
- Clean up immediately after meals.
- Dispose of trash in bear-proof containers.
- Do not leave coolers or food in the open.
- Use designated picnic areas whenever possible.
A bear's natural diet mainly consists of berries, nuts, plants, insects, and other natural food sources. Human food teaches bears to associate people with meals, which can create dangerous situations for future visitors and often leads to the bear being euthanized.
Remember the saying:
"A fed bear is a dead bear."
Bear Safety Around Cabins
Yes, bears are occasionally seen near cabins throughout the Smokies, including around our properties. Guests have spotted bears wandering through yards, crossing driveways, or exploring wooded areas nearby. While exciting to observe, bears should always be viewed safely from inside the cabin or from a secure distance.
To help keep both guests and bears safe:
- Never leave trash outside.
- Do not leave food, drinks, coolers, or pet food on decks or picnic tables.
- Bag and secure all garbage in the provided bear-proof containers.
- Lock doors and windows whenever leaving the cabin.
- Never feed or approach bears for photos.
Most bears want nothing to do with people and will move along quickly if they do not find food rewards.
Enjoy Bears Safely
Seeing a black bear in the Smoky Mountains is a special experience and a reminder that this region remains one of the wildest and most beautiful areas in the eastern United States.
Admire bears from a safe distance, respect their habitat, and help preserve this experience for future visitors.