One of the primary reasons why so many folks love visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the abundance of wildlife! In addition to the iconic black bear, there are excellent opportunities to view white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, salamanders, and all types of other fascinating critters throughout the park! It is no wonder that the Smokies are such a prime destination for nature lovers and photographers from around the world! To make your visit a safe and enjoyable experience, here are a few insider tips for viewing wildlife in the Smoky Mountains:
Best Times and Places for Wildlife Viewing
While you can see wildlife in the Smokies at any time of day or night, there are certain times that are best for wildlife viewing! Animals in the Smoky Mountains are particularly active in the early morning and late evening hours, especially during the summer months, since the weather is cooler at these times. The majority of the park is covered in dense forest, which can sometimes make wildlife viewing a challenge. Therefore, you’ll want to head to Cades Cove, a stunning open valley surrounded by mountains that features an 11-mile, one-way loop road! Keep your eyes out for the large numbers of white-tailed deer, as well as bears, coyotes, and raccoons. You may even spot a river otter around Abrams Creek!
Things to Bring for the Best Experience
Another one of the top tips for viewing wildlife in the Smoky Mountains is what to bring for the best experience. You’ll definitely want to pack some binoculars, which allow you to view animals in action from a safe distance– ideal for bird watching! Be sure to scan the treetops carefully as you might catch a bear taking a nap! If you’re into photography, consider a camera with a zoom lens so that you can capture some incredible photos without disturbing any of the animals, especially if you see elk or other creatures on the side of the road. For those planning to do some hiking, bring some sturdy shoes, comfortable clothing, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements while exploring. If you hike to a waterfall, be on the lookout for salamanders in the water!
Maintaining Safe Distances and Other Safety Tips
It can be tempting to get up close for that perfect photo, but you’ll want to keep some wildlife safety tips in mind to protect both yourself and the animals in the park! Most importantly, remember to maintain a distance of at least 50 yards at all times, which is not just a precaution but a law contained in the Code of Federal Regulations. Be especially careful around bears, as they are wild animals that can be dangerous and unpredictable! Also, avoid feeding any of the animals in the park, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and teach them to be more aggressive towards humans in their search for food.
Read More: “3 Things to Do if You Encounter Black Bears in the Smoky Mountains”
Now that you know some of the top tips for viewing wildlife in the Smoky Mountains, you’re all set for an adventure in the National Park! While there are excellent opportunities to see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears, you might get lucky enough to spot one of the more rare animals in the park! Learn about the wildlife in the Smoky Mountains you’re least likely to see!
