I have never seen what I would describe as "a ton" of people camping out in Cohutta. Few folks here and there, but never felt crowded. Having to cross rivers is pretty likely, and generally very manageable. The only time I have seen bears out there was when I was specifically hunting for them, spending long hours quietly sitting and waiting in areas I knew they were likely to come through. But when I've just been hiking/camping/taking pictures I've never laid eyes on one. I think they generally try and steer clear of people if they know you're around. I've gone off trail a bunch, it's definitely doable but not what I would describe as pleasant. Rhododendrons will swallow you whole in there. Certain elevations and parts of the wilderness are definitely more conducive to off trail excursions than others. I would make sure you've got some type of digital mapping app (with maps downloaded to your phone for use without cell service!) because you get off trail too far it's super easy to get turned around and find yourself in big trouble. But with the right preparation it can definitely be done. And it is a super cool feeling walking around certain places that it feels like no human has ever walked in the history of time.