Spring · Nature & GSMNP
Peak season for spotting the park's estimated 1,500 black bears. Best viewing is early morning or late evening in Cades Cove, Cataloochee Valley, and along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Bears are most active April through August foraging for food. Always maintain 50 yards distance.
Cades Cove at dawn is your best bet - bears forage in the open meadows before tourists arrive. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is another hotspot. Always stay 50 yards away. Binoculars are essential. April-June is peak season before bears move to higher elevations in summer heat.
