Increased Bear Activity in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area: Be BearWise

Asheville -- May 18, 2026: U.S. Forest Service - National Forests in North Carolina  (Nantahala Pisgah Uwharrie Croatan)There have been several recent reports of increased bear activity in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, specifically at the campsites on Shortoff Trail and at the Shortoff Trailhead on Wolf Pit Rd. The reports consist of repeated attempts by bears to take food from bear hang bags and cars. While the bears have not shown aggressive behavior toward humans, they have been pe