The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Closes Some Trails as Bears Prepare for Winter — What You Need to Know

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has closed several trails because black bears are feeding in the area before hibernating.

According to the National Park Service, the park temporarily closed both the Gatlinburg Trail, which connects Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, and the Twin Creeks Trail, which connects Gatlinburg to the Twin Creeks Science and Education Center. The trails were closed for the safety of park visitors as well as to allow black bears to feed on acorns undisturbed in preparation for their winter hibernation.

During this time, bears may travel up to 30 miles to feed on specific oak trees.

“Generally, bears are solitary; however, several bears may be seen feeding in close proximity during the fall,” the NPS wrote in its advisory. “They will frequently feed for more than 12 hours a day and can congregate in areas with abundant food sources. Normally wary bears may act aggressively to defend these areas during this time period.”

Hikers who see a black bear should keep their distance and use binoculars, a telephoto lens, or a spotting scope to see it. In fact, getting within 150 feet of a black bear is illegal.

If a bear begins to follow a park visitor, the NPS advises them to change direction. However, if the bear does not stop, the parkgoer must stand their ground; if the bear approaches, people should talk loudly or shout and act aggressively to intimidate the bear. Travelers carrying bear spray should use it when the bear gets within 20 yards of them.

The park, which is located between North Carolina and Tennessee, is estimated to have 1,500 bears that can weigh more than 600 pounds in the fall when preparing for winter.

Aside from the closed trails, there are numerous ways to see and stay in Smoky Mountains National Park, from luxurious glamping camps to exploring the park’s relatively untouched landscape, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

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