Bears chase, bite visitors at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

CBS News
April 21, 2026
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2 min read

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The Bottom Line

Parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park are closed after visitors were chased and bitten by bears.

How This Affects You

If you plan to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you face a risk of aggressive bear encounters, leading to potential injury.

AI Summary

Visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park were chased and bitten by aggressive bears over the weekend. This prompted park authorities to close certain areas of the park to ensure public safety. The incidents highlight the dangers wildlife can pose to humans, particularly when animals exhibit uncharacteristic aggression. Park officials are likely investigating the cause of the bears' behavior and assessing when the closed sections can be safely reopened.

What's Being Done

Parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are closed due to aggressive bear encounters.

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