Everything You Need to Know About Bears in the Smoky Mountains

After coming to enjoy a delicious meal with us here at Five Oaks Farm Kitchen, many visitors to the area head off to explore the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And with so many incredible sights to see, it is no wonder! One of the most popular things to do when visiting the park is to look for the famous bears in the Smoky Mountains that call the area home, which is why we have put together some helpful information about seeing these majestic creatures. Simply read on to find out everything you need to know about bears in the Smoky Mountains:

What kind of bears live in the Smoky Mountains?

All of the bears in the Smoky Mountains are American black bears. Black bears are the smallest type of bears in North America!

How many bears live in the Smokies?

There are around 2,000 bears that live at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which works out to roughly two bears per square mile! Given the high population density of bears in the Smoky Mountains, this area is one of the best places to see these incredible animals.

Where are the best places for seeing bears in the Smoky Mountains?

When it comes to places to spot bears in the Smoky Mountains, Cades Cove is among the best destinations due to the wide open areas that allow for ideal sightlines. Another popular area for seeing bears is Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, as the bears enjoy playing in the trees that surround the road.

When are the best times for spotting bears?

Generally, bears are most active during times when there are not many human visitors in the area. This means that going early in the morning and later in the evening can help give you a better chance to spot bears in the Smoky Mountains, though you should make sure to check the park’s hours to ensure that you will have enough time when you visit. As for which times of year are best for seeing bears in the Smoky Mountains, they are typically most active during the spring and summer, as the temperatures are warmer and mating takes places in July.

How do I safely view bears in the Smoky Mountains?

There are a few important safety tips that you should always keep in mind when interacting with bears and other wildlife in the Smoky Mountains. Make sure to stay at least 50-100 yards away from bears and do not attempt to approach them. If a bear tries to approach you, back away while keeping the bear in sight and make loud noises to deter it. Also make sure to keep all food sealed and dispose of trash properly while in the park! These safety rules help to promote continued positive co-existence of humans and bears.

Now that you have the information you need about bears in the Smoky Mountains, you are ready to head off on a wildlife spotting adventure of your own. And if you work up an appetite while exploring the Smokies, you can always head back over to Five Oaks Farm Kitchen for another delicious meal!