Great Smoky Mountains National Park reminds visitors to view wildlife safely as elk and black bear activity increases this fall. Autumn offers opportunities to witness elk during their annual breeding season, known as the rut, and to observe bears feeding on fall food sources. While these experiences can be amazing to witness, they also require caution, awareness, and respect for wildlife.

During the rut, bulls experience elevated testosterone levels and may exhibit defensive or aggressive behaviors toward perceived threats — including people, vehicles, and pets. Female elk, or cows, remain protective of their calves, contributing to overall herd stress. When viewing elk, visitors are required to stay at least 25 yards (75 feet) away and avoid disturbing or provoking them.

Black bears are highly active during autumn. They must build sufficient fat reserves to sustain themselves through denning in winter, when they do not eat or drink. As natural fall foods like acorns become abundant, bears move across the park, and visitors may see them more frequently near roadsides.

As bears are unpredictable, visitors should be alert in the park, stay at least 50 yards (150 feet) away and know how to respond during an encounter to keep both themselves and wildlife safe.

To ensure the safety of both wildlife and people, the NPS reminds visitors to follow these regulations:

  • Keep your distance: It is illegal to approach elk within 25 yards (75 feet) or bears within 50 yards (150 feet) or at any distance that causes an animal to change its behavior because of your presence. Violations may result in fines or arrest.
  • Never feed wildlife: Dispose of all garbage or food scraps in bear-proof garbage containers or take trash with you.
  • Respect closures and staff direction: Fields around Oconaluftee and Cataloochee are closed to all visitors during the rut. Do not stop on roadways when viewing wildlife, and respect all bear-related closures. Follow instructions from park rangers and volunteers when viewing wildlife.
  • Stay alert and slow down: Wildlife frequently cross roadways. Obey posted speed limits and always remain attentive when driving through the park.
  • View wildlife from your vehicle safely: Use designated pull-offs and ensure your vehicle is completely off the roadway without obstructing traffic.
  • Back away if approached: If an elk or black bear approaches, calmly increase your distance by moving away from the bear. If a black bear continues to follow, stand your ground, be loud, throw rocks, and continue to back away slowly. If an animal approaches you, it is your responsibility to safely and calmly maintain the legal distance. If a black bear attacks you, defend yourself by fighting back, and do not play dead.

To learn more about elk and bear safety in the Smokies, visit the park’s elk and black bear webpages.