Bear Safety in the Smokies
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the few places in the East where black bears live in wild, natural surroundings. Knowing how to behave ensures your safety and protects the bears.
The 50-Yard Rule
It is illegal to willfully approach a bear within 50 yards (150 feet) or any distance that disturbs or displaces them.
- If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior, you are too close.
- Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for viewing.
- If a bear approaches you, slowly back away to maintain the distance.
It is roughly the length of half a football field, or 4 school buses parked end-to-end.
Bears Near Your Cabin
Bears frequently visit cabin rentals looking for easy meals. Keep the area pristine.
- Lock all vehicle doors (bears know how to open car handles).
- Do not leave food, coolers, or trash on the porch or deck.
- Clean the grill thoroughly immediately after use.
- If a bear approaches the cabin, make loud noises from a safe distance inside to scare it away.
Storing Food & Trash
A fed bear is a dead bear. Bears that obtain human food quickly lose their fear of humans and become dangerous.
- Never feed wildlife intentionally or accidentally.
- Store all food and coolers inside a locked vehicle with the windows rolled up.
- Dispose of all garbage in bear-proof dumpsters.
On the Trail
Bear attacks are extremely rare, but you must know how to react if you encounter one while hiking.
- Do NOT run. Bears can run over 30 mph. Back away slowly.
- Make yourself look as large as possible.
- If the bear follows you, change your direction. If it continues to follow, stand your ground and speak loudly.
- Carry EPA-approved bear spray and know how to use it.
🧠 Bear Smart Mini-Quiz
Test your knowledge before you head out into the park!
1. If a black bear spots you on the trail, you should immediately turn and run away.
2. It is safe to leave a cooler on your cabin porch if it is tightly closed.
3. Black bears are excellent tree climbers.
🐻 Reading Bear Body Language
Bears communicate clearly if you know what to look for. Here is what they are trying to tell you.
Standing on Hind Legs
A bear standing up is usually just curious and trying to get a better look or smell of you. It is not a sign of aggression.
Jaw Popping & Huffing
Loudly popping their jaws or exhaling sharply (huffing) is a warning sign that the bear is stressed or uncomfortable. Back away slowly.
Swatting the Ground
If a bear swats the ground or bluff-charges, it is telling you that you are way too close. Do NOT run. Stand your ground and back away.