Volunteer Bear Patrol - Asheville - Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway Bear Patrol Volunteer Job Description

The Blue Ridge Parkway’s Volunteer Bear Patrol plays a vital role in helping protect one of the Parkway’s most iconic wildlife species—the American Black Bear—while ensuring a safe and meaningful experience for millions of visitors each year. Bear Patrol volunteers serve as friendly, knowledgeable ambassadors who help prevent bear–human conflicts through proactive education and resource protection.

Location

The Blue Ridge Parkway in the Asheville Area. Primary location will be the trailhead for the Bull Mountain Trail near the Folk Art Center (milepost 382). Secondary locations that may be covered include the overlooks and trails between Craggy Gardens (milepost 364) and Mount Pisgah (milepost 408).

Major Duties:

1. Educate visitors about Parkway regulations relating to bears & proper etiquette to follow to avoid bear/human conflicts.

2. Educate visitors about the National Park Mission including how & why it is important to protect Parkway resources.

3. Serve as an extension of the Parkway staff making initial contact with visitors.

4. Observe & report situations of concern to the National Park Staff.

5. Set up & staff an information/education table. 

6. Rove trails & make informal educational contacts with visitors.

The Bear Patrol is NOT: 

1. To enforce policy and regulations

2. To actively manage bears (no moving bears, no hazing bears, etc...)

Knowledge and Skills Required:

• Ability to contact visitors resulting in positive outcomes and interactions

• Ability to de-escalate conflict to gain compliance with Parkway regulations and policies

• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.

• Ability to interact well with the public and practice safety in all aspects of the job. 

• Ability to work independently with little or no direct supervision.

• Ability to lift and carry objects up to 20 pounds. 

• Ability to work outside in various weather conditions

• Ability to walk on uneven terrain

Minimum Time Commitment

• Volunteer for at least two 3-hour shifts per month

Training Requirement

• Attend Mandatory Training Session before Volunteer Service on the Bear Patrol can begin