Great Smoky Mtns. NP – UPDATE Shelter Reopened – Cosby Knob Shelter
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
bear-activity
|closure
|shelter-closure
|Alert
08/31/2022
Update: Cosby Knob Shelter (NOBO mile 231.1) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) has been reopened by park officials due to bear activity. However, a bear caution for the shelter is in place.
Hikers in the park are required to use the provided food storage cables at all overnight sites. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) recommends that all overnight hikers carry a bear canister. To hang a bear canister on the food storage cables, you can place the bear canister in an empty pack and attach the pack to the cables. You should never attach rope to your bear canister as that may allow a bear to carry it away.
Hikers should keep a clean camp, pack out all trash and food waste, and store food and all “smellables” properly. Never leave food or smellables unattended.
To learn more about bear safety, proper food storage on the A.T., bear canister lending programs, and how to use a bear canister, visit: https://appalachiantrail.org/bears
For information about backcountry permits and conditions in the park, contact the GSMNP Backcountry Office: 865-436-1297
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08/04/2022
Cosby Knob Shelter (NOBO mile 231.1) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) has been closed again by park officials due to bear activity. Hikers should plan their itineraries accordingly to avoid camping at the shelter.
Hikers in the park are required to use the provided food storage cables at all overnight sites. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) recommends that all overnight hikers carry a bear canister. To hang a bear canister on the food storage cables, you can place the bear canister in an empty pack and attach the pack to the cables. You should never attach rope to your bear canister as that may allow a bear to carry it away.
Hikers should keep a clean camp, pack out all trash and food waste, and store food and all “smellables” properly. Never leave food or smellables unattended.
To learn more about bear safety, proper food storage on the A.T., bear canister lending programs, and how to use a bear canister, visit: https://appalachiantrail.org/bears
For information about backcountry permits and conditions in the park, contact the GSMNP Backcountry Office: 865-436-1297
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