Bear warnings posted on several trails in Smokies

In keeping with today's theme, I thought I'd bring to the attention of hikers that there are several trails that now have bear warnings posted on them in the Smokies. These warnings have been posted due to bear activity in the area, which likely is a result of a lower than usual soft mast crop. Great Smoky Mountain biologists have stated that the park's cherry, blueberry and blackberry crop was poor this summer.

Below is the current list of trails, campsites and shelters with posted warnings. Further down is the list of bear closures:

• Alum Cave Trail
• Clingmans Dome Trail
• Trillium Gap Trail - Grotto Falls parking area to Grotto Falls
• Laurel Falls Trail
• Little River Trail
• Pretty Hollow Gap Trail
• Rainbow Falls Trail
• Upper Forney Ridge Trail
• Backcountry Campsites 18, 28, 36, 37, 38, 61, 85
• Double Spring Gap Shelter
• Laurel Gap Shelter
• Mount Collins Shelter
• Mount Le Conte Shelter
• Spence Field Shelter

Bear Closures:

• Backcountry Campsites 21, 24, 35, 68
• Cosby Knob Shelter
• Silers Bald Shelter


To stay up to date on all the latest closings, please click here.


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com