The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a sanctuary for both hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, the Smokies offer some of the best opportunities for seeing wildlife in their natural habitats.
Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of majestic elk, observe playful otters, or marvel at the soaring peregrine falcons, this guide will help you discover the best spots for wildlife viewing while hiking in this incredible national park.
But before we dive into the trails, it’s important to remember the significance of responsible wildlife viewing. Keeping a respectful distance and leaving no trace ensures the safety of both animals and hikers.
Wildlife to Look for in the Great Smoky Mountains
The Smokies are teeming with a variety of wildlife, and knowing what to look for can enhance your experience. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most commonly spotted animals:
Mammals:
Black Bears: With over 1,500 black bears estimated to live in the park, your chances of seeing one are fairly high. Look for them at dawn or dusk, especially along Cades Cove or Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
White-Tailed Deer: Deer are often seen grazing in open meadows and along the forest edges, particularly in Cades Cove and Cataloochee Valley.
Elk: Reintroduced to the park in 2001, elk have made a strong comeback in Cataloochee Valley. These majestic creatures are typically spotted in the mornings and evenings.
Birds:
Peregrine Falcons: Known for their incredible speed, peregrine falcons nest on high cliffs, particularly near Alum Cave Trail. Bring binoculars for a chance to see one soaring overhead.
Wild Turkeys: Frequently seen in open fields and meadows, wild turkeys are a common sight along Cades Cove Loop.
Amphibians and Reptiles:
Salamanders: The Smokies are known as the “Salamander Capital of the World,” with over 30 different species. You’ll find these fascinating creatures near creeks and damp forest floors.
Aquatic Life:
River Otters and Beavers: Keep an eye out along streams like Abrams Creek for playful otters and busy beavers building dams.
The Best Trails for Wildlife Spotting In Great Smoky mountains national park
1. Cades Cove Loop Trail
- Distance: 17km
- Grade: Medium
- Est. Time: 3 Hours
Wildlife to Spot: White-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, coyotes.
Why It’s Great: Cades Cove is one of the most popular destinations in the park, offering an 11-mile loop that winds through open fields, woodlands, and historic settlements. Its combination of diverse habitats makes it a fantastic place to spot wildlife, especially large mammals like black bears and deer. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times to see animals actively foraging or moving through the area.
2. Abrams Falls Trail
Distance: 8km
Grade: Medium
Est. Time: 2 Hours
Wildlife to Spot: Beavers, river otters, salamanders.
- Why It’s Great: This 5-mile round-trip trail follows the course of Abrams Creek, a vital waterway that attracts a variety of wildlife, including beavers and otters. The trail itself is moderately challenging, but the reward is Abrams Falls, a picturesque waterfall that makes for a perfect resting spot.
3. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte
- Distance: 17 km
- Grade: Medium
- Est. Time: 5 Hours
Wildlife to Spot: Peregrine falcons, black bears, songbirds.
Why It’s Great: One of the most iconic hikes in the Smokies, the Alum Cave Trail offers a mix of rich woodlands, rocky cliffs, and breathtaking views. The elevation gain on this 11-mile hike introduces you to different habitats as you ascend, improving your chances of spotting diverse wildlife, from black bears to peregrine falcons that nest along cliff edges.
4. Cataloochee Valley
Distance: 23km
Grade: Hard
Est. Time: 1 Day
Wildlife to Spot: Elk herds, black bears, owls.
Why It’s Great: For a more peaceful, remote wildlife experience, head to Cataloochee Valley, a hidden gem in the park. Here, elk roam the open meadows after being reintroduced to the park in the early 2000s. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to spot them. Cataloochee is also home to black bears and various bird species, including owls.
Tips for Safe and Responsible Wildlife Viewing
When hiking in wildlife-rich areas, safety and respect for the animals should always come first. Here are some essential tips for wildlife viewing in the Great Smoky Mountains:
- Keep Your Distance: Always observe wildlife from a safe distance to protect both yourself and the animals. Use the rule of thumb: if you can cover the animal with your thumb at arm’s length, you’re far enough away.
- Use Binoculars and Zoom Lenses: Instead of trying to get closer, use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for a detailed look without disturbing the wildlife.
- Best Times for Viewing: Early mornings and late afternoons are the most active times for many species. Plan your hikes around these times for the best chance to see animals.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Sticking to designated trails helps preserve the natural environment and keeps you from accidentally disturbing sensitive wildlife habitats.
- Carry Bear Spray: If you’re hiking in areas where black bears are common, it’s a good idea to carry bear spray and know how to use it in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best places to observe wildlife in the Eastern U.S., offering everything from black bears and elk to falcons and salamanders. By choosing the right trails and hiking responsibly, you can have an unforgettable experience while keeping yourself and the wildlife safe.
