Great Smoky Mountains National Park closes trails amid bear activity spike

One of the most visited national parks in the United States is closing parts of its hiking trails as officials deal with an increase in bear activity.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee has temporarily closed several trails and backcountry areas due to increased black bear sightings, according to the National Park Service.

Officials said closures are put in place when bears frequent specific areas or show signs of unpredictable behavior, posing a risk to both visitors and wildlife.

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The park attracts more than 12 million visitors each year, meaning even a slight increase in bear encounters and visitors can quickly escalate.

The Smokies are home to about 1,900 black bears, one of the densest populations in the country, the National Park Service said.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has temporarily closed several trails and backcountry areas after an increase in black bear sightings. (iStock)

Bear activity tends to increase in the spring and summer as the animals emerge from hibernation and search for food, often bringing them closer to hiking trails, campsites and roads.

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Park officials say human behavior also contributes to the problem.

When bears access food left out by visitors or are intentionally fed, they may begin to associate humans with food, the National Park Service said.

The Smoky Mountains are home to approximately 1,900 black bears. (iStock)

Authorities warn that this can lead to more aggressive behavior and increase the likelihood of dangerous encounters and, in some cases, lead to bears being euthanized.

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Last week, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed a new law regarding the feeding of black bears in certain areas, which is expected to take effect in July, FOX 17 reported.

The measure makes it a Class B misdemeanor to knowingly feed bears where warning signs are posted, with violators subject to fines of at least $250.

Feeding bears or leaving food outside can cause them to connect people with food, increasing the risk of dangerous encounters. (iStock)

Park officials also urge visitors to know how to react if they encounter a bear.

The National Park Service advises keeping a safe distance of at least 50 yards and never approaching or allowing a bear to approach.

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If a bear notices you and changes its behavior, such as stopping or moving toward you, authorities say you are too close and should back away slowly from the animal.

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Fox News Digital has reached out to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for further comment.