The Best Time to Spot Bears in Gatlinburg: A Month-by-Month Guide

Black bears are Gatlinburg’s iconic mascots. About 1,500 bears live in the Smokies’ lush forests, and spotting them is easy–if you know when and where to look! 

Here’s the lowdown:

• Peak bear sighting season is April through August. 
• Your chances of seeing bears goes up if you look for them in the early morning or late evening, when they’re most active. 
• Always stay at least 150 feet away from any bear–getting closer is actually against national park regulations. 
• Learn how to deal with a bear encounter safely. Read the park service’s bear safety rules at this link. 

January-February: Sightings Are Rare

Spotting bears in winter is possible–but rare. Bears here don’t hibernate, but “den up” for the winter, sleeping.The depth of winter is when pregnant females give birth and nurture their newborn cubs in their dens. Bears might leave their dens briefly if the weather turns unusually warm, or if something disturbs them. Otherwise, winter months just aren’t a good bet, if you’re determined to add bear sightings to your Smokies vacation. 

March-May: Cubs Emerge from Dens

Adult male bears are usually the first to shake off winter slumber. Soon, mothers and cubs emerge! The winter cubs are now three months old and ready to explore. Alert observers can catch moms foraging while youngsters romp. Bear cubs learn to climb trees at a young age, so scan the trees for cubs perching in the branches. 

What you’ve heard about how mama bears protect their cubs is true: Never approach cubs or try to entice them to come closer to you. Mama is close by, even if you don’t see her. 

June-August: Peak Bear Spotting Season

Chances of a sighting are high, even if you aren’t actively watching for bears. Bears are seeking mates and food in summer. Prime spots for bears are Cades Cove, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Newfound Gap, and the Chalet Village area. 

September-October: Getting Ready for Winter

Odds of bear sightings are still good. Bears are preparing their dens and their bodies for the coming cold, so look for them in locations rich with food, like Cades Cove. 

November-December: Good Night 

A few bears are still around, noshing on the last bites of forage, but most bears are bedding down for winter. 

In a Gatlinburg vacation cabin, you’re likely to see a bear wander past if you’re sharp-eyed. Don’t engage, just enjoy. Reserve a Gatlinburg cabin now for a bear spotting getaway!