A tourist visiting Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains got a surprise when she checked the back porch of her cabin.

>> Read more trending news

A black bear decided to take the plunge and enjoy the water in a hot tub Thursday night at the Gatlinburg tourist site, WBIR reported.

Elizabeth Strickland sent photographs to the television station, writing that "I just had to share with y'all. I was in that same seat 14 hours ago!"

The bear wasn't shy either, climbing into the hot tub and frolicking in the water, WBIR reported.

Strickland said there were three cubs that also played before leaving, the television station reported.

As cute as the sight must have been, wildlife officials caution tourists to be wary of the bears.

For information on how to safely coexist with black bears, visit www.tn.gov.

About the Author

Keep Reading

The SNAP program provided benefits to about 13% of Georgia’s population, 1.4 million people, during the 2024 fiscal year. (Associated Press)

Credit: Sipa USA via AP

Featured

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens (right) tours the Vine City neighborhood with his senior advisor Courtney English (left). (Matt Reynolds/AJC 2024)

Credit: Matt Reynolds