After multiple reports of visitors feeding and attempting to hold a young bear at the Lane Pinnacle Overlook, Blue Ridge Parkway officials are closing an 8-mile section.
Officials say the Parkway between milepost 367.6 near the Craggy Gardens Picnic Area to milepost 375.6 at Ox Creek Road is closed starting Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, until further notice due to human and bear interactions.
Fall is a critical time of year for bears. Between September and November, bears may forage for food up to 20 hours a day as they attempt to put on weight for the winter and hibernation. During this time bears actively seek out natural foods but will also take advantage of human foods when presented with the opportunity.
Park staff want to remind park visitors to keep food out of sight and follow all bear safety tips available on the Parkway’s Bear Safety web page and at BearWise.org.
If you encounter a bear while on the parkway, call 828-298-2491 or stop at the nearest Visitor Center to report the encounter.
