Experts estimate there are about 1,900 black bears living in Great Smoky National Park. Bear sightings in these parts are common, even in populated areas.


Make sure all trash is disposed of in the proper bear-resistant containers. Lock your car and roll all windows up (yes bears know how to open car doors).

Never approach a bear. Willfully approaching a bear within 150 feet is illegal.


If you do see a bear, stay calm, secure small children, and slowly back away. Never turn and run.


https://www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm