Gateway Stewards Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I see a bear?
Bears are most active at dawn and dusk, and typically not in the middle of the day. They live throughout the park but are more easily seen in open places such as Cades Cove. Always remember to stay 50 yards from bears and stay in your vehicle when viewing from the road.

When is Cades Cove closed to Motor Vehicles?
Every Wednesday all day from May - the end of September

Alternative Hike Options.

• Metcalf Bottoms Trail 1.2 Miles round trip, park at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic area.
• Look Rock Tower Trail . 8 miles round trip, park in Parking lot on Foothills parkway west.
• Chestnut Tops Trail, park at Townsend Wye.
• Cosby Nature Trail 1.3 mile loop, park at Cosby picnic area.
• Cove Hardwood Trail . 8 mile loop, park at Chimney tops picnic area

How many bears are in the park?
About 1900 bears live in the park, up from between 50 and 200 when the park was established in 1934.

Where can I see a waterfall?
Henwallow Falls on Gabes Mountain Trail in Cosby is a great 4.7 mile hike.
Meigs Falls can be seen on Little River Road between mile marker 7 and 8.

What about Laurel Falls?
Laurel Falls is currently closed until spring 2027

When is Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail open?
TBD for 2027 depending on staffing

Where can I go for a scenic drive?

• The Foothills Parkway both east and west.
• Balsam Mountain Road - Temporarly closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene.
• Lakeview Drive.

Where can I see wildflowers?

• The Chestnut tops trail
• Cove Hardwood Trail
• Cosby Nature Trail
• Kephart Prong Trail

Authorized Shuttle Providers:

• AAA Hiker Shuttle - 865-322-0691
• A Walk in the Woods - 865-436-8283
• Bryson City Outdoors - 828-342-6444
• Carolina Bound - 828-569-6699
• Great Smoky Mountains Eco Tours - 865-900-5979
• RockyTop Tours - 865-429-8687
• Smoky Mountain Rides - 865-562-2833