TikTok is a worldwide phenomenon where people can post life hacks, pranks, dance trends, and bears? Rick Mathis or @ricktock69 caught a bear and her cubs crossing over the track as a rider on the Rail Runner ascended to the summit of Anakeesta. This close encounter received over 11 million views on Tiktok in just 3 days!
Bears are frequent visitors at Anakeesta and we work closely with TWRA ” Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency” in the Great Smoky Mountains National park to ensure the safety of our guests and remain knowledgeable on bear protocol. The bear in this video is “Ana” who received her name after Anakeesta, since she has been spotted on the mountain frequently with her cubs since our park opened in 2017. Our staff was just outside the camera’s view, monitoring the rider and bears on an ATV…. and don’t worry, the rider and bears in this video were not harmed. Watch the full video on TikTok!
This close encounter caught the attention of Good Morning America, FoxNews, Southern Living and multiple local news stations around the country including Knoxville’s WBIR. Learn about the bears that are frequently seen at Anakeesta and what to do if you were to encounter one during your visit. Keep your eyes open and stay bear aware.
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