Smokies trails reopened following bear incident
The Mt. Le Conte Backcountry Shelter and trails to the popular Cliff Tops area have re-opened following closure due to a May 17 encounter with an aggressive bear.
On that date, one of the park’s wildlife technicians reported a bear persistently approaching and following him in the area for about one-third of a mile, despite the trained ranger’s attempts to deter it with loud noises and other scare tactics.
Though the areas are now open, bear warnings remain in place for areas including the Mt. Le Conte Backcountry Shelter and Lodge, and the Boulevard, Alum Cave, Bull Head, Rainbow Falls, Trillium Gap and Brushy Mountain trails.
Black bear attacks are rare but have occurred before. Hikers should travel in groups, closely control children, carry bear spray and store food carefully.
Report bear incidents to 865.436.1230. www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/black-bears.htm.
