Part of Great Smoky Mountains trail closed over 'aggressive' bear encounters

A trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is temporarily closed after a string of recent bear encounters.

The National Park Service said it happened at Ramsey Cascades Trail in recent weeks. Park rangers responded to three bear-related encounters there. They said a bear approached visitors and took two backpacks. Another bear also showed signs of aggressive behavior and chased a group of hikers.

Rangers said they also responded to three incidents at Abram Falls Trail last weekend. They said one bear bit a visitor in a closed area.

The National Park Service has asked visitors to help protect themselves, others and wildlife by giving bears space, storing trash and food responsibly and staying alert on trails.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to approximately 1,900 American black bears and is the most-visited national park in the United States.