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  11:39 a.m. July 5, 2015
Hazel Creek backcountry area reopened


GATLINBURG, TN - Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials have reopened trails and backcountry campsites in the Hazel Creek area. The area has been closed since June 6 following a recent bear attack on a 16 year old male.

Park rangers and wildlife biologists have used traps and cameras to monitor the area daily. Biologists recently detected bear activity at two other trap sites at locations within the Hazel Creek area and were able to collect hair samples for DNA analysis which were completed last week. The analysis determined that the bears active in the area were not associated with the bear attack.

"Based on this information, I feel it is reasonably safe to end the closure at this time," said Superintendent Cassius Cash. "Our staff has demonstrated extraordinary dedication and determination over the last several weeks to help ensure hiker safety in the Hazel Creek backcountry." Campsites will be marked with bear activity warning signs to remind hikers to exercise caution while hiking in the area and follow all food storage regulations.

Hazel Creek Trail, Jenkins Ridge Trail, Bone Valley Trail, Cold Spring Gap Trail, Derrick Knob Shelter, and backcountry campsites 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, and 88 reopened July 2. For more information on what to do if you encounter a bear while hiking, please visit the park website at www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/black-bears.htm. To report a bear incident, please call 865-436-1230.


Published July 3, 2015






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