Great Smoky Mountains National Park closes trails amid bear activity spike

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

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

Officials said closures are made when bears frequent certain areas or exhibit unpredictable behavior and pose a risk to both visitors and wildlife.

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The park attracts more than 12 million visitors each year, meaning even a small increase in bear encounters with visitors can add up quickly.

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

Bear activity tends to increase during the spring and summer months as animals come out of 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 gain access to food that visitors leave out or deliberately feed on, 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)

Officials warn that this can lead to more aggressive behavior, 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 that will go into effect in July. FOX 17 reported.

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

Feeding bears or leaving food out can cause them to associate humans 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 recommends that you maintain a safe distance of at least 50 feet and never approach or allow 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 you should back away slowly while staring at the animal.

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