Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Question: Why is Cades Cove in Tennessee one of the best places to spot a black bear in the wild?
Answer: Cades Cove is one of the best places to spot a black bear in the wild because it has one of the highest bear sighting rates in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—especially during spring and early summer. The open valley landscape makes it easier to see bears from a distance, and the area offers abundant natural food sources like berries, acorns, and insects. Wildlife are also more active around the loop road at dawn and dusk, giving visitors a good chance of spotting a bear without leaving their car.