Asheville -- May 18, 2026: U.S. Forest Service - National Forests in North Carolina (Nantahala Pisgah Uwharrie Croatan)There have been several recent reports of increased bear activity in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, specifically at the campsites on Shortoff Trail and at the Shortoff Trailhead on Wolf Pit Rd.
The reports consist of repeated attempts by bears to take food from bear hang bags and cars. While the bears have not shown aggressive behavior toward humans, they have been persistent in their attempts to get the food and were not easily scared off by loud noises or human presence. Practicing bear safety is always important and even more so during periods of increased activity.
A clean campsite is one of the best ways to prevent bear encounter. Follow these tips from BearWise with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to stay safe!
-Keep a clean camp.
-Don’t burn food scraps or trash in your fire ring or grill.
-Do not store food, trash, clothes worn when cooking, or toiletries in your tent. Store in approved bear resistant containers OR out of sight in a locked vehicle OR suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 10 feet from any part of the tree.
-In the backcountry, set up camp away from dense cover and natural food sources.
-Cook at least 100 yards from your tent, downwind if possible.
Visit BearWise.org/bear-safety-tips/ to learn more about bear safety.
For more information on bear safety and food storage requirements on the National Forests in North Carolina, visit here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/northcarolina/safety-ethics