There are a million things to see in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so it always helps to travel with an expert! This spring, naturalist Jamie Matzko and wildlife biologist Keith Watson will be offering free guided tours of the park through the Gatlinburg Special Events Department. Jamie and Keith know everything there is to know about the national park, so this Gatlinburg event is an incredible opportunity to see the Smokies like never before.
(See Related: Have You Heard? The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Reopens Once Again!)
April Nature Hikes
Jamie Matzko’s nature hikes are a wonderful way to experience everything you love about spring in the Smokies! On this tour you’ll see the park’s gorgeous wildflowers, a cove hardwood forest, and a variety of other habitats. Be sure to bring your binoculars, because Jamie will be teaching some basic bird watching techniques.
Jamie’s tours will leave from the Sugarlands Visitor Center at 3:00 p.m. on April 7, 14, and 21. Each hike should last about 90 minutes.
May Bird Watching Hikes
Keith Watson’s tours are a real treat for birdwatchers. As a former migratory bird biologist at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Keith is an expert on the songbirds of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During this two hour tour, you’ll learn how to identify birds by their appearance and sound. As with the April hikes, don’t leave your binoculars at home!
Keith will offer his hikes on the following dates:
- May 6 starting at 8:30 a.m. leaving from the Sugarlands Visitor Center
- May 13 starting at 9:00 a.m. leaving from Newfound Gap
- May 20 starting at 8:30 a.m. leaving from Rainbow Falls Trailhead.
Registration
In order to attend this Gatlinburg event, you must register in advance. You can sign up by calling Jennie at 865-436-0505.
Where to Stay
Our cabins in Gatlinburg are just minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! With breathtaking mountain views, fully furnished kitchens, and awesome game rooms, Timber Tops has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. Visit our Gatlinburg Cabins page to find the perfect place to stay for your next trip to the Smokies, or speak to one of our vacation specialists at 877-549-6775.
