Black Bear Family Spotted Roaming Through Gatlinburg Parking Lot, Drawing Attention From Smoky Mountain Visitors
GATLINBURG, Tenn. — A peaceful Wednesday evening turned into an unforgettable wildlife encounter when a black bear family was spotted strolling through a Gatlinburg parking lot around 5 p.m., providing tourists with a glimpse of the Smoky Mountains’ untamed beauty.
Captured in a photo by Lisa Tankersley, the scene shows a mother bear leading her cubs calmly across the pavement, unfazed by nearby cars and onlookers. The sight quickly spread across local social media, where many described it as a “true Smoky Mountain moment.”
Bears Roaming Freely in the Smokies
Black bears are a regular presence in Gatlinburg, especially in late fall when they search for food before winter. According to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, sightings often increase in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville during this period due to overlapping human and bear activity zones.
“Even in busy areas, bears roam freely this time of year,” wildlife officials remind. “It’s important to admire them from a safe distance and never attempt to feed or approach.”
Officials say these bears are likely following familiar trails that cut through the city’s wooded edges, making encounters like this increasingly common near hotels, cabins, and parking lots.
Safety Tips for Tourists and Locals
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has urged visitors to follow basic safety measures to prevent conflicts with wildlife:
- Give wildlife plenty of space and never attempt close-up photos.
- Keep food sealed and vehicles locked to avoid attracting bears.
- Avoid leaving trash outside overnight.
- Observe quietly and move away slowly if bears approach.
Bears that grow accustomed to human presence can lose their natural fear, leading to dangerous encounters. TWRA notes that relocation or euthanasia of “food-conditioned” bears is an unfortunate last resort that can be avoided through responsible behavior.
Respecting Wildlife, Preserving Magic
Encounters like this one remind residents and tourists why the Smoky Mountains remain one of the most unique and biodiverse regions in the country. While the sight of a bear family wandering through town may seem magical, it underscores the need for coexistence and caution.
As the holiday season brings more travelers into the mountains, officials encourage everyone to keep their distance, stay alert, and enjoy the rare beauty of the Smokies safely.
Photo credit: Lisa Tankersley
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I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.