In recent years, we have noticed a significant increase in bear activity as visitors and guests arrive in Montreat for the summer. As such, we wanted to provide a few tips to help ensure a safe Montreat experience for both our human and ursine friends. Here are a few things to consider if you encounter a bear while exploring Montreat this summer:
Do Not Approach a Bear
Black bears are seldom aggressive; however, if they feel threatened, they may take action to defend themselves or their cubs. Black bears may huff, stomp, stand on their hind legs, or even bluff charge if they are nervous or uncertain of their surroundings. This is just their way of asking that you give them their space! If you encounter a bear in the wild, be sure to maintain your distance and slowly back away as you feel comfortable. Loud noises can also help to scare away a bear as long as it has a clear escape route.
If a Bear Approaches You…
First, attempt to navigate away from the bear. If the bear continues to approach you, stand your ground and attempt to intimidate the bear. Shout loudly or use a bear bell, whistle, or other deterrent to discourage the bear from coming any closer. Do not run and do not play dead. If you come into physical contact with a bear, defend yourself aggressively using anything you have at your disposal.
Food and Garbage
In Montreat, as with many places in western North Carolina, bears are drawn to the smell of food and garbage. When they encounter easily available food, it teaches them to return to that area when looking for their next meal. The best way to avoid this problem is to make sure all food is properly stored (yes, that includes the leftovers in your car) and that all garbage is secured in a bear-proof container. Green bear-proof bins can be found throughout Montreat Conference Center’s campus, and household waste can be disposed of at the Town of Montreat’s Convenience Center, located across from town hall.
Beyond human food-items, bird seed, cat food, and dog food, if left outside, can also attract bears. Be sure to store these items indoors and, perhaps, forego using bird feeders during seasons when bears are particularly active.
Bears and Dogs
Per Buncombe County ordinance, dogs are required to be on a leash at all times while in Montreat (this includes spaces like Welch Field and all hiking trails). When bears encounter a dog in the wild, they will quickly become defensive and there is a high likelihood that your pet may become injured. Keep yourself and your pet safe by keeping it on a leash!
Where to Learn More
To learn more about best practices involving black bears, we highly recommend that you check out the following resources from BearWise and the National Park Service. There, you can find more in-depth advice regarding bear encounters in residential areas or in the wild and learn about steps you can take to keep yourself, and the bears, safe and healthy. Thank you for helping to create a space where humans and bears can coexist!
This article was originally published in the June 2026 edition of Montreat Conference Center’s email newsletter Stewarding God’s Creation which highlights information related to the Montreat Wilderness. Sign up to receive Stewarding God’s Creation directly in your inbox by clicking here.