Archived Outdoors
WNC’s biggest bear
One of the most unique leaf-looking experiences in the country — the Shadow of the Bear — is now visible from U.S. 64 near Cashiers.
Appearing for just 30 minutes on sunny days about an hour before sunset mid-October through early November, this phenomenon starts with a small shadow at the bottom of the valley that slowly morphs into a distinctive bear shape on the mountainside.
The best view of the Shadow of the Bear is at Rhodes Big View Overlook along U.S. 64, though spectators should be careful of cars whizzing by. The shadow also occurs from mid-February to early March.
