While visiting Gatlinburg this fall, chances are that you will see a black bear within the city limits of Gatlinburg. Numerous bear sightings have been reported during October. The Smoky Mountains had a great season last year for new bear cubs being born along.
Efforts to restore bear populations in Tennessee have resulted in more frequent bear sightings both inside and outside of the national park. Park Rangers are saying that in 2009, there have been more bear sightings since the park service started keeping records in 1981.
Should you encounter a bear on your trip, keep in mind that you should not approach the animal. Use extreme caution around the bear. If the bear changes it’s behavior (stops feeding, or starts paying attention to you) you are too close to the animal. Don’t run or do anything that could startle the bear. Slowly back away while watching the bear. Changes are you increase your distance from the bear, it will do the same.
For more bear encounter safety tips, click here to visit the National Park Service
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