Black Bear Takes a Walk on the Anakeesta Treetop Skywalk (Video Included!)
Black bears love visiting Anakeesta too! On March 25, 2021, a black bear took a stroll on the Anakeesta Treetop Skywalk. Look below to watch the video and find out more about black bears and Anakeesta:
Black Bear Walks on Bridge
When you visit Anakeesta, you may find black bear statues and other decor, but you probably aren’t expecting to come face to face with a live one! In the misty morning of Thursday March 25, 2021, a black bear was spotted walking across the Anakeesta Treetop Skywalk. Luckily it was early in the morning and there weren’t many people around.
This isn’t the first time black bears have been spotted at Anakeesta. Check out this story about a family of black bears crossing over Anakeesta’s Rail Runner!
Black Bear Safety
You always want to be careful when you see wild animals. If you happen to see a black bear while you’re visiting the Smokies, you should stay at least 50 yards away. It is exciting to see these creatures in person, but you should consider your safety as well as their safety. Just enjoy looking at them from afar! If you do find yourself closer than this, move away slowly.
If you do see a bear, just remain watchful. Usually, they will leave you along and move on. But if a black bear changes their behavior in any way, you’re probably too close. Again, move away slowly if possible, and the bear is likely to do the same.
Your first instinct may be to run if you see a black bear, but you should never run. Black bears don’t usually attack people, because they want to be left alone. Moving slowly in the opposite direction is the safest option, because if you run, they might run after you.
Things to Do at Anakeesta
Want to see what the black bear saw as he walked across the Anakeesta Treetop Skywalk? You need to go to Anakeesta the next time you’re in town! Find out more about fun things to do at Anakeesta:
Treetop Skywalk
The Anakeesta Treetop Skywalk is a series of rope and wood bridges throughout the property. You can walk through the trees and see zipliners race overhead. This is a great activity for people of all ages to enjoy!
Anavista Observation Tower
If you want to enjoy mountain views, you should experience the Anavista Observation Tower. You just walk up the stairs, and at the top, you’ll be able to see all of downtown Gatlinburg. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Kentucky!
Treeventure Challenge Course
Kids of all ages will love this nature themed obstacle course. There are all kinds of obstacles and challenges, and your kids will want to do it again and again!
Dueling Zipline
If you love thrills, you should go on the Dueling Ziplines at Anakeesta. You can race friends and family down the side of the mountain. You’ll pass over the forest and get great mountain views all the way down.
You’ll love visiting Anakeesta and seeing what the black bear saw while it was there! Want to know what else you can do in the Smokies? Check out these attractions in the Smoky Mountains for more ideas!
