Bears and Your Vacation

Bear with Us

The Smokies are home to black bears. And while you are here on vacation, they are actually right where they are supposed to be…for the most part. This blog discusses ways to navigate your getaway when Smoky the Bear shows up.

In another blog post we discussed the animals you want to vacation with, now let’s talk about the ones you don’t.

Bears inhabit all areas of this county. According to the National Park Service website, biologists estimate that roughly 1,900 bears live in the park alone. This equals a population density of two bears per square mile. That’s a lot of bears!

With increased amounts of people, bear activity seems like it is also increasing. More people in spaces means less space for the bears. It’s a tight fit. Also, with more people come the opportunities for bears to forage. With their highly sensitive sense of smell, it’s easy for them to be drawn to something they might find tasty. Misplaced trash, unlocked cars with food and more people attempting to feed bears has created a potentially harmful relationship with humans.

Though it is illegal to feed bears that doesn’t always keep people from taking a risk for a photo opportunity or a video to share online. The common phrase is “a fed bear is a dead bear.” This is because once bears have become reliant on human interactions for food the more aggressive is its need for that relationship and sadly this does not end well for the bear. They face relocation, or worse, termination if they become too comfortable.

Bears are wild animals and even bear cubs can be dangerous as they are often protected by their mother. Always keep a safe distance between you and any bear you might encounter.

Keeping You Safe in Your Cabin

A few things can help you navigate an unwanted true local from ruining your getaway.

First, always lock your car. Bears are smart and they can open car doors. They are especially talented at getting into vehicles. Once inside they can destroy a car in minutes.

Bears are primarily active the most at dawn and dusk and are relatively quiet during the day and late at night. Should you see one on the grounds, or on your porches or decks, please stay inside and make sure to keep your door locked. Admiring the locals safely is the best way to enjoy them.

Always be mindful of your surroundings when loading and unloading your vehicle and if you do happen to see bear activity during your stay, please make sure to let us know. We do try to post bear warning signs when we are aware there is an issue.

Keeping You Safe in the Mountains

There are many ways to avoid preventing encounters with bears.

Make Noise

Hike in Groups

Avoid Thick Brush

Make Noise in Hard-to-See Areas

Store Food Properly

Don’t Feed Bears

Secure Your Pets

Report any Sightings or Encounters

For more specific information on the above list please visit: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm

IF You Should Meet a Bear

Black bears are  usually timid and want to avoid humans but still it is important to know what to do if you should meet one of the true locals face to face.

Stay Calm

Back Away Slowly

Make Yourself Look Bigger

Yell Loudly

Use Bear Spray: You must pack your own, we do not supply this

IF the Bear Attacks

Bear attacks are rare; most bears are only interested in protecting food, cubs, or their space. However, being mentally prepared can help you have the most effective reaction. Help protect others by reporting all bear incidents to a park ranger immediately. Above all, keep your distance from bears!

Fight Back If Needed: If you are attacked by a black bear, DO NOT PLAY DEAD. This is advice meant specifically for Black Bears which are what we have in the Smokies. Try to escape to a secure place such as a car or building. If escape is not possible, try to fight back using any object available. Concentrate your kicks and blows on the bear's face and muzzle.

In the event of a bear attack, while on a hike, please remember that even with NO CELL reception 911 will still work as is required by Federal Law.

Other Exciting Wildlife

Bears aside, the Smokies are home to all kinds of exciting critters. From fireflies to red salamanders to Coyotes and Elk. There is a lot to see!! For all kinds of information on who else lives in these hills click HERE.

You Are Safe Here

Bottom line, animals aside, you are safe here. Vacation in the mountains and wildlife go hand in hand and hopefully this blog has helped to provide you with the necessary information you need to have a fun and safe experience, even if it should include bears or other critters.

And if you love animals and want to bring your pooch on a visit, check out our blog: 

For information on pet-friendly cabins click HERE