Postpone Trip?

Planning to hike the AT in early June (in GSMNP), but many shelters/campgrounds have been closed due to bear activity. We've had to change our plans. Has this happened while you have been on the trail and what do you do after hiking all day and finding the shelter is closed? Have you seen a lot of bear activity recently?

Also, how is cell reception?

From Fontana Dam to Shuckstack MT are there switchbacks or is it straight up?

Any advice would be appreciated!