Where are the most bears in the Smoky Mountain National Park?

Most Likely See Black Bears in Cades Cove or on Trails Cades Cove is a popular place where many people see black bears. You can drive around on the loop and possibly see them passing through fields or even see them near the historic buildings or along the creek.



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Location of Bears in the Smokies With approximately 1,500 bears in the park, the population density is roughly two bears per square mile! This means that bear sightings in the park are not uncommon, especially during the early morning and late evening hours in spring and summer when they are the most active.

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Even if you don't see a bear on the trail, it's extremely likely that you will see one while you're driving around the area, especially if you take a drive along any of the motor nature trails or Newfound Gap Road. Cades Cove is one of the most popular spots to see black bears in the Smoky Mountains.

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Bear spray is legal for self-defense in The Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Although you probably won't need to use it, the peace of mind and security of knowing you have it on your hip so you can enjoy your hiking, camping or swimming is priceless.

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There are eight to 10 reported sightings of mountain lions, also called cougars or pumas, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park each year.

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