Heritaage Hunt 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Join a ranger for a program on the cemeteries of Cades Cove. After the talk, an activity booklet will be provided to discover the stories, mysteries and insight cemeteries give us about community life in the cove. more...
Junior Rangers: Extreme Explorers 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Do you like scavenger hunts? Bring your exploration tools and skills! Become a Nature Detective as you help a ranger look for clues about the animals and plants who live here. more...
Bald is Beautiful! Andrews Bald Hike 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Bring the family and join a ranger and enjoy the natural and scenic beauty of Andrews Bald. Learn about this unique high-elevation ecosystem and its history, while exploring some of the issues facing it, such as threats from the balsam woolly adelgid. more...
The Walker Sisters of Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Six sisters lived their long lives in this homestead the old-fashioned way. Join a ranger on this 2.2 mile roundtrip hike to learn about their fascinating history. more...
Junior Ranger: Cherokee Pottery 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Cherokees have been making pottery for…..how long? Come find out, and leave with a piece of pottery that you have created using the same methods employed by Qualla Boundary master craftspeople. more...
A Stitch In Time 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM Quilting is often referred to as putting memories into something practical. You can learn a practical way to keep the memories of your visit to the Smokies by making a quilted potholder. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Toymaking 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Designing and creating simple toys from wood added some fun to the life of children in Cades Cove.
more...
Seed to Table 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Have you ever wondered where your food comes from and how it gets to your table? Join a ranger to explore our heirloom vegetable garden and the many ways we
grow our food. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM What kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. more...
Let`s be a Scientist! 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM Ever dream of being a scientist? Join a ranger to try using scientific tools to study wildlife and forests. Be prepared to get "up-close-and-personal" to some of the critters that live in the Smokies! more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Thursday 7/2/2009
Junior Ranger Program: Art in the Park 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM National parks have inspired artists for years. Join a park ranger, become an artist and create some art of your own to take home. more...
Junior Ranger: Skins, Skulls, and Scat 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Learn about popular animals in the Smokies through hands-on exploration of animal skulls, skins, and other evidence. more...
Junior Ranger: Leaf Litter Critters 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Open your eyes to the world of soil organisms. Get up close and personal while you learn about these valuable creatures, the jobs they do, and what they tell us of forest health. more...
Become a GPS Guru! 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Join a ranger to experience an exciting outdoor adventure game known as earthcaching. Global Positioning System (GPS) units will be provided for use during the program. Limited to children 10 years and older. more...
See the Trees Through the Forest 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM There are over a hundred species of trees that grow in the national park. Join in on a walk along Fighting Creek to identify some of them. This program is an ideal family and "Junior Ranger" activity. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Slimy Salamanders 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Join a Ranger to explore the damp, dark world of the park`s most popular amphibian. Be prepared to get a little wet and even a little dirty as we search for this slimy creature. more...
You Too Can Play the Hog Fiddle! 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Join a park ranger to learn about traditional mountain music and learn to play the “hog fiddle,” a.k.a. the mountain dulcimer. It’s so easy—give it a try! more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Friday 7/3/2009
Junior Ranger Program 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Join a park ranger to learn about one of the crafts used in the Cove. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Blacksmithing 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Join a Ranger in the blacksmith shop and make your own dinner bell to take home. Limited to children ages 10 and older. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Scavenger Hunt 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Would you like to hone your observation skills? Come join a scavenger hunt with a ranger to see what we can find. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Elkmont: The Rest of the Story 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Logging and tourism were both factors in the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Elkmont played a major role in this history. Join park staff as we walk back through time. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Evening Campfire Program 9:00 PM to 9:45 PM Join a ranger for a national park tradition--the evening campfire program. Topics vary through the summer, but include "A Gift for all Time: The Creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park," "Mountain Life and Work: What Did People do Before the National Park?" and "Historic Structures: What Do You Build First?" You`re guaranteed to learn something new about the Great Smoky Mountains. more...
Saturday 7/4/2009
Mountain Music Bring a blanket or chair and sit back as local musicians share the stories and songs of the mountains at Smokemont Campground. Types of music include traditional old time, bluegrass, and gospel. more...
Ranger Guided Wagon Ride 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM Climb aboard the wagon ride at Smokemont Riding Stables for a ranger-guided tour of the old Oconaluftee Turnpike. more...
Blacksmith Demonstration 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Learn the art of blacksmithing and why it was important in the Cades Cove Community. more...
Bear With Us 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM The North American black bear is the symbol of the Smokies. Learn about some of their characteristics and the do`s and don`ts of observing these wonderful animals. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Smokies Nightlife 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM Move beyond the comforting glow of your campfire to explore the "dark side" of the Smokies. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Blacksmith Demonstration 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Learn the art of blacksmithing and why it was important in the Cades Cove Community. more...
Junior Rangers Rock! 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM How old are the Great Smoky Mountains? How were they formed? Do rocks talk? Find the answers at this unique Junior Ranger geology program. more...
Mountain Farm Walk 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Join a ranger for a walk on the farm to discover the history of the buildings and the people who built them. more...
Stream Strolling 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Water is the life blood of the Smokies. Take a short walk along a nearby stream to discover why. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger: Stream Splashers 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet.
more...
Elkmont`s Natural World 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Walk with a ranger and discover some unique facts about this part of the Smokies. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Monday 7/6/2009
Anikituwahgi: The Cherokee of the Appalachians 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Learn about the inhabitants of the Qualla Boundary, home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, as we discuss aspects of their past and present. Try your skill with an authentic Cherokee blowgun. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM hat kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. All ages welcome. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Native Plant Walk 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM Explore the gardens around the visitor center and Mountain Farm Museum to discover why native plants make the best gardens. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Full Moon on Top of the Smokies 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM Discover the creatures of the night. Challenge your senses as we hike up the highest mountain in Tennessee for a spectacular sunset and full moon view. Bring a flashlight. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Tuesday 7/7/2009
Junior Ranger: Mammal Mania! 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Otters and rabbits and bears, Oh my! Join a Ranger for a hands-on discovery of mammals in the park. more...
Junior Ranger: Blacksmithing 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM, 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM, 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM, 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM Join a park ranger in the blacksmith shop to learn about the blacksmith. Create your own item to take home. Other Junior Ranger programs will be going on simultaneously for younger kids. Group size will be limited; you must begin at start times listed. Limited to children ages 8-12. more...
Going to School at Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Readin` and writin` and fun. Turn back the clock to 1900 and find out what it was like to attend school in a one-room log schoolhouse. more...
Aw Shucks! 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Come experience the art of making a simple corn shuck doll. more...
Smokemont History Walk 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM Hike to a cemetery and learn about the people and rich history of the Smokemont area. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Whose Poop`s On My Boots? 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Grab the kids and meet a ranger to get the scoop on animal skins, tracks, and...poop! Make your very own track and scat bandana! more...
Cades Cove 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM Join a park ranger for an early morning open air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of life in Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Cades Cove Full Moon Hike 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM Join a ranger for an easy walk on the Cades Cove Loop Road under a full moon. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Wednesday 7/8/2009
Heritaage Hunt 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Join a ranger for a program on the cemeteries of Cades Cove. After the talk, an activity booklet will be provided to discover the stories, mysteries and insight cemeteries give us about community life in the cove. more...
Junior Rangers: Extreme Explorers 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Do you like scavenger hunts? Bring your exploration tools and skills! Become a Nature Detective as you help a ranger look for clues about the animals and plants who live here. more...
Bald is Beautiful! Andrews Bald Hike 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Bring the family and join a ranger and enjoy the natural and scenic beauty of Andrews Bald. Learn about this unique high-elevation ecosystem and its history, while exploring some of the issues facing it, such as threats from the balsam woolly adelgid. more...
The Walker Sisters of Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Six sisters lived their long lives in this homestead the old-fashioned way. Join a ranger on this 2.2 mile roundtrip hike to learn about their fascinating history. more...
Junior Ranger: Cherokee Pottery 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Cherokees have been making pottery for…..how long? Come find out, and leave with a piece of pottery that you have created using the same methods employed by Qualla Boundary master craftspeople. more...
A Stitch In Time 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM Quilting is often referred to as putting memories into something practical. You can learn a practical way to keep the memories of your visit to the Smokies by making a quilted potholder. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Toymaking 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Designing and creating simple toys from wood added some fun to the life of children in Cades Cove.
more...
Seed to Table 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Have you ever wondered where your food comes from and how it gets to your table? Join a ranger to explore our heirloom vegetable garden and the many ways we
grow our food. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM What kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. more...
Let`s be a Scientist! 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM Ever dream of being a scientist? Join a ranger to try using scientific tools to study wildlife and forests. Be prepared to get "up-close-and-personal" to some of the critters that live in the Smokies! more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Thursday 7/9/2009
Junior Ranger Program: Art in the Park 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM National parks have inspired artists for years. Join a park ranger, become an artist and create some art of your own to take home. more...
Junior Ranger: Skins, Skulls, and Scat 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Learn about popular animals in the Smokies through hands-on exploration of animal skulls, skins, and other evidence. more...
Junior Ranger: Leaf Litter Critters 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Open your eyes to the world of soil organisms. Get up close and personal while you learn about these valuable creatures, the jobs they do, and what they tell us of forest health. more...
Become a GPS Guru! 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Join a ranger to experience an exciting outdoor adventure game known as earthcaching. Global Positioning System (GPS) units will be provided for use during the program. Limited to children 10 years and older. more...
See the Trees Through the Forest 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM There are over a hundred species of trees that grow in the national park. Join in on a walk along Fighting Creek to identify some of them. This program is an ideal family and "Junior Ranger" activity. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Slimy Salamanders 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Join a Ranger to explore the damp, dark world of the park`s most popular amphibian. Be prepared to get a little wet and even a little dirty as we search for this slimy creature. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
You Too Can Play the Hog Fiddle! 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Join a park ranger to learn about traditional mountain music and learn to play the “hog fiddle,” a.k.a. the mountain dulcimer. It’s so easy—give it a try! more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Friday 7/10/2009
Junior Ranger Program 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Join a park ranger to learn about one of the crafts used in the Cove. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Blacksmithing 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Join a Ranger in the blacksmith shop and make your own dinner bell to take home. Limited to children ages 10 and older. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Scavenger Hunt 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Would you like to hone your observation skills? Come join a scavenger hunt with a ranger to see what we can find. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Elkmont: The Rest of the Story 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Logging and tourism were both factors in the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Elkmont played a major role in this history. Join park staff as we walk back through time. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Evening Campfire Program 9:00 PM to 9:45 PM Join a ranger for a national park tradition--the evening campfire program. Topics vary through the summer, but include "A Gift for all Time: The Creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park," "Mountain Life and Work: What Did People do Before the National Park?" and "Historic Structures: What Do You Build First?" You`re guaranteed to learn something new about the Great Smoky Mountains. more...
Saturday 7/11/2009
Mountain Music Bring a blanket or chair and sit back as local musicians share the stories and songs of the mountains at Smokemont Campground. Types of music include traditional old time, bluegrass, and gospel. more...
Ranger Guided Wagon Ride 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM Climb aboard the wagon ride at Smokemont Riding Stables for a ranger-guided tour of the old Oconaluftee Turnpike. more...
Bear With Us 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM The North American black bear is the symbol of the Smokies. Learn about some of their characteristics and the do`s and don`ts of observing these wonderful animals. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Smokies Nightlife 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM Move beyond the comforting glow of your campfire to explore the "dark side" of the Smokies. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Junior Rangers Rock! 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM How old are the Great Smoky Mountains? How were they formed? Do rocks talk? Find the answers at this unique Junior Ranger geology program. more...
Mountain Farm Walk 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Join a ranger for a walk on the farm to discover the history of the buildings and the people who built them. more...
Stream Strolling 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Water is the life blood of the Smokies. Take a short walk along a nearby stream to discover why. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger: Stream Splashers 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet.
more...
Elkmont`s Natural World 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Walk with a ranger and discover some unique facts about this part of the Smokies. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Monday 7/13/2009
Anikituwahgi: The Cherokee of the Appalachians 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Learn about the inhabitants of the Qualla Boundary, home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, as we discuss aspects of their past and present. Try your skill with an authentic Cherokee blowgun. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM hat kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. All ages welcome. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Native Plant Walk 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM Explore the gardens around the visitor center and Mountain Farm Museum to discover why native plants make the best gardens. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Tuesday 7/14/2009
Junior Ranger: Mammal Mania! 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Otters and rabbits and bears, Oh my! Join a Ranger for a hands-on discovery of mammals in the park. more...
Junior Ranger: Blacksmithing 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM, 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM, 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM, 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM Join a park ranger in the blacksmith shop to learn about the blacksmith. Create your own item to take home. Other Junior Ranger programs will be going on simultaneously for younger kids. Group size will be limited; you must begin at start times listed. Limited to children ages 8-12. more...
Going to School at Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Readin` and writin` and fun. Turn back the clock to 1900 and find out what it was like to attend school in a one-room log schoolhouse. more...
Aw Shucks! 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Come experience the art of making a simple corn shuck doll. more...
Smokemont History Walk 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM Hike to a cemetery and learn about the people and rich history of the Smokemont area. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Whose Poop`s On My Boots? 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Grab the kids and meet a ranger to get the scoop on animal skins, tracks, and...poop! Make your very own track and scat bandana! more...
Cades Cove 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM Join a park ranger for an early morning open air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of life in Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Wednesday 7/15/2009
Heritaage Hunt 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Join a ranger for a program on the cemeteries of Cades Cove. After the talk, an activity booklet will be provided to discover the stories, mysteries and insight cemeteries give us about community life in the cove. more...
Junior Rangers: Extreme Explorers 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Do you like scavenger hunts? Bring your exploration tools and skills! Become a Nature Detective as you help a ranger look for clues about the animals and plants who live here. more...
Bald is Beautiful! Andrews Bald Hike 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Bring the family and join a ranger and enjoy the natural and scenic beauty of Andrews Bald. Learn about this unique high-elevation ecosystem and its history, while exploring some of the issues facing it, such as threats from the balsam woolly adelgid. more...
The Walker Sisters of Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Six sisters lived their long lives in this homestead the old-fashioned way. Join a ranger on this 2.2 mile roundtrip hike to learn about their fascinating history. more...
Junior Ranger: Cherokee Pottery 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Cherokees have been making pottery for…..how long? Come find out, and leave with a piece of pottery that you have created using the same methods employed by Qualla Boundary master craftspeople. more...
A Stitch In Time 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM Quilting is often referred to as putting memories into something practical. You can learn a practical way to keep the memories of your visit to the Smokies by making a quilted potholder. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Toymaking 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Designing and creating simple toys from wood added some fun to the life of children in Cades Cove.
more...
Seed to Table 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Have you ever wondered where your food comes from and how it gets to your table? Join a ranger to explore our heirloom vegetable garden and the many ways we
grow our food. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM What kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. more...
Let`s be a Scientist! 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM Ever dream of being a scientist? Join a ranger to try using scientific tools to study wildlife and forests. Be prepared to get "up-close-and-personal" to some of the critters that live in the Smokies! more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Thursday 7/16/2009
Junior Ranger Program: Art in the Park 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM National parks have inspired artists for years. Join a park ranger, become an artist and create some art of your own to take home. more...
Junior Ranger: Skins, Skulls, and Scat 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Learn about popular animals in the Smokies through hands-on exploration of animal skulls, skins, and other evidence. more...
Junior Ranger: Leaf Litter Critters 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Open your eyes to the world of soil organisms. Get up close and personal while you learn about these valuable creatures, the jobs they do, and what they tell us of forest health. more...
Become a GPS Guru! 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Join a ranger to experience an exciting outdoor adventure game known as earthcaching. Global Positioning System (GPS) units will be provided for use during the program. Limited to children 10 years and older. more...
See the Trees Through the Forest 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM There are over a hundred species of trees that grow in the national park. Join in on a walk along Fighting Creek to identify some of them. This program is an ideal family and "Junior Ranger" activity. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Slimy Salamanders 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Join a Ranger to explore the damp, dark world of the park`s most popular amphibian. Be prepared to get a little wet and even a little dirty as we search for this slimy creature. more...
You Too Can Play the Hog Fiddle! 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Join a park ranger to learn about traditional mountain music and learn to play the “hog fiddle,” a.k.a. the mountain dulcimer. It’s so easy—give it a try! more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Friday 7/17/2009
Junior Ranger Program 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Join a park ranger to learn about one of the crafts used in the Cove. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Blacksmithing 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Join a Ranger in the blacksmith shop and make your own dinner bell to take home. Limited to children ages 10 and older. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Scavenger Hunt 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Would you like to hone your observation skills? Come join a scavenger hunt with a ranger to see what we can find. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Elkmont: The Rest of the Story 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Logging and tourism were both factors in the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Elkmont played a major role in this history. Join park staff as we walk back through time. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Evening Campfire Program 9:00 PM to 9:45 PM Join a ranger for a national park tradition--the evening campfire program. Topics vary through the summer, but include "A Gift for all Time: The Creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park," "Mountain Life and Work: What Did People do Before the National Park?" and "Historic Structures: What Do You Build First?" You`re guaranteed to learn something new about the Great Smoky Mountains. more...
Saturday 7/18/2009
Mountain Music Bring a blanket or chair and sit back as local musicians share the stories and songs of the mountains at Smokemont Campground. Types of music include traditional old time, bluegrass, and gospel. more...
Ranger Guided Wagon Ride 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM Climb aboard the wagon ride at Smokemont Riding Stables for a ranger-guided tour of the old Oconaluftee Turnpike. more...
Blacksmith Demonstration 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Learn the art of blacksmithing and why it was important in the Cades Cove Community. more...
Bear With Us 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM The North American black bear is the symbol of the Smokies. Learn about some of their characteristics and the do`s and don`ts of observing these wonderful animals. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
Cosby Campground Programs 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join in for some Old-Time Mountain Music at the Cosby Campground Amphitheater. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Smokies Nightlife 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM Move beyond the comforting glow of your campfire to explore the "dark side" of the Smokies. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Blacksmith Demonstration 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Learn the art of blacksmithing and why it was important in the Cades Cove Community. more...
Junior Rangers Rock! 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM How old are the Great Smoky Mountains? How were they formed? Do rocks talk? Find the answers at this unique Junior Ranger geology program. more...
Mountain Farm Walk 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Join a ranger for a walk on the farm to discover the history of the buildings and the people who built them. more...
Stream Strolling 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Water is the life blood of the Smokies. Take a short walk along a nearby stream to discover why. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger: Stream Splashers 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet.
more...
Elkmont`s Natural World 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Walk with a ranger and discover some unique facts about this part of the Smokies. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Monday 7/20/2009
Anikituwahgi: The Cherokee of the Appalachians 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Learn about the inhabitants of the Qualla Boundary, home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, as we discuss aspects of their past and present. Try your skill with an authentic Cherokee blowgun. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM hat kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. All ages welcome. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Native Plant Walk 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM Explore the gardens around the visitor center and Mountain Farm Museum to discover why native plants make the best gardens. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Tuesday 7/21/2009
Junior Ranger: Mammal Mania! 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Otters and rabbits and bears, Oh my! Join a Ranger for a hands-on discovery of mammals in the park. more...
Special Scientists 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Do you "like lichen"? Do you know what a "Water Bear" is? Program will include using scientific equipment to get "up-close-and-personal" to these critters. Limited to children 10 years and older. more...
Junior Ranger: Blacksmithing 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM, 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM, 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM, 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM Join a park ranger in the blacksmith shop to learn about the blacksmith. Create your own item to take home. Other Junior Ranger programs will be going on simultaneously for younger kids. Group size will be limited; you must begin at start times listed. Limited to children ages 8-12. more...
Going to School at Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Readin` and writin` and fun. Turn back the clock to 1900 and find out what it was like to attend school in a one-room log schoolhouse. more...
Aw Shucks! 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Come experience the art of making a simple corn shuck doll. more...
Smokemont History Walk 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM Hike to a cemetery and learn about the people and rich history of the Smokemont area. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Whose Poop`s On My Boots? 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Grab the kids and meet a ranger to get the scoop on animal skins, tracks, and...poop! Make your very own track and scat bandana! more...
Cades Cove 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM Join a park ranger for an early morning open air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of life in Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Wednesday 7/22/2009
Heritaage Hunt 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Join a ranger for a program on the cemeteries of Cades Cove. After the talk, an activity booklet will be provided to discover the stories, mysteries and insight cemeteries give us about community life in the cove. more...
Junior Rangers: Extreme Explorers 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Do you like scavenger hunts? Bring your exploration tools and skills! Become a Nature Detective as you help a ranger look for clues about the animals and plants who live here. more...
Bald is Beautiful! Andrews Bald Hike 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Bring the family and join a ranger and enjoy the natural and scenic beauty of Andrews Bald. Learn about this unique high-elevation ecosystem and its history, while exploring some of the issues facing it, such as threats from the balsam woolly adelgid. more...
The Walker Sisters of Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Six sisters lived their long lives in this homestead the old-fashioned way. Join a ranger on this 2.2 mile roundtrip hike to learn about their fascinating history. more...
Junior Ranger: Cherokee Pottery 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Cherokees have been making pottery for…..how long? Come find out, and leave with a piece of pottery that you have created using the same methods employed by Qualla Boundary master craftspeople. more...
A Stitch In Time 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM Quilting is often referred to as putting memories into something practical. You can learn a practical way to keep the memories of your visit to the Smokies by making a quilted potholder. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Toymaking 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Designing and creating simple toys from wood added some fun to the life of children in Cades Cove.
more...
Seed to Table 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Have you ever wondered where your food comes from and how it gets to your table? Join a ranger to explore our heirloom vegetable garden and the many ways we
grow our food. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM What kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. more...
Let`s be a Scientist! 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM Ever dream of being a scientist? Join a ranger to try using scientific tools to study wildlife and forests. Be prepared to get "up-close-and-personal" to some of the critters that live in the Smokies! more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Thursday 7/23/2009
Junior Ranger Program: Art in the Park 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM National parks have inspired artists for years. Join a park ranger, become an artist and create some art of your own to take home. more...
Junior Ranger: Skins, Skulls, and Scat 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Learn about popular animals in the Smokies through hands-on exploration of animal skulls, skins, and other evidence. more...
Junior Ranger: Leaf Litter Critters 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Open your eyes to the world of soil organisms. Get up close and personal while you learn about these valuable creatures, the jobs they do, and what they tell us of forest health. more...
Become a GPS Guru! 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Join a ranger to experience an exciting outdoor adventure game known as earthcaching. Global Positioning System (GPS) units will be provided for use during the program. Limited to children 10 years and older. more...
See the Trees Through the Forest 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM There are over a hundred species of trees that grow in the national park. Join in on a walk along Fighting Creek to identify some of them. This program is an ideal family and "Junior Ranger" activity. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Slimy Salamanders 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Join a Ranger to explore the damp, dark world of the park`s most popular amphibian. Be prepared to get a little wet and even a little dirty as we search for this slimy creature. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
You Too Can Play the Hog Fiddle! 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Join a park ranger to learn about traditional mountain music and learn to play the “hog fiddle,” a.k.a. the mountain dulcimer. It’s so easy—give it a try! more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Friday 7/24/2009
Junior Ranger Program 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Join a park ranger to learn about one of the crafts used in the Cove. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Blacksmithing 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Join a Ranger in the blacksmith shop and make your own dinner bell to take home. Limited to children ages 10 and older. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Scavenger Hunt 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Would you like to hone your observation skills? Come join a scavenger hunt with a ranger to see what we can find. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Elkmont: The Rest of the Story 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Logging and tourism were both factors in the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Elkmont played a major role in this history. Join park staff as we walk back through time. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Evening Campfire Program 9:00 PM to 9:45 PM Join a ranger for a national park tradition--the evening campfire program. Topics vary through the summer, but include "A Gift for all Time: The Creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park," "Mountain Life and Work: What Did People do Before the National Park?" and "Historic Structures: What Do You Build First?" You`re guaranteed to learn something new about the Great Smoky Mountains. more...
Saturday 7/25/2009
Mountain Music Bring a blanket or chair and sit back as local musicians share the stories and songs of the mountains at Smokemont Campground. Types of music include traditional old time, bluegrass, and gospel. more...
Ranger Guided Wagon Ride 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM Climb aboard the wagon ride at Smokemont Riding Stables for a ranger-guided tour of the old Oconaluftee Turnpike. more...
Bear With Us 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM The North American black bear is the symbol of the Smokies. Learn about some of their characteristics and the do`s and don`ts of observing these wonderful animals. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Smokies Nightlife 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM Move beyond the comforting glow of your campfire to explore the "dark side" of the Smokies. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Junior Rangers Rock! 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM How old are the Great Smoky Mountains? How were they formed? Do rocks talk? Find the answers at this unique Junior Ranger geology program. more...
Mountain Farm Walk 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Join a ranger for a walk on the farm to discover the history of the buildings and the people who built them. more...
Stream Strolling 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Water is the life blood of the Smokies. Take a short walk along a nearby stream to discover why. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Junior Ranger: Stream Splashers 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet.
more...
Elkmont`s Natural World 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Walk with a ranger and discover some unique facts about this part of the Smokies. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Monday 7/27/2009
Anikituwahgi: The Cherokee of the Appalachians 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Learn about the inhabitants of the Qualla Boundary, home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, as we discuss aspects of their past and present. Try your skill with an authentic Cherokee blowgun. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM hat kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. All ages welcome. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Native Plant Walk 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM Explore the gardens around the visitor center and Mountain Farm Museum to discover why native plants make the best gardens. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Tuesday 7/28/2009
Junior Ranger: Mammal Mania! 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Otters and rabbits and bears, Oh my! Join a Ranger for a hands-on discovery of mammals in the park. more...
Junior Ranger: Blacksmithing 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM, 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM, 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM, 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM Join a park ranger in the blacksmith shop to learn about the blacksmith. Create your own item to take home. Other Junior Ranger programs will be going on simultaneously for younger kids. Group size will be limited; you must begin at start times listed. Limited to children ages 8-12. more...
Going to School at Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Readin` and writin` and fun. Turn back the clock to 1900 and find out what it was like to attend school in a one-room log schoolhouse. more...
Aw Shucks! 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Come experience the art of making a simple corn shuck doll. more...
Smokemont History Walk 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM Hike to a cemetery and learn about the people and rich history of the Smokemont area. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Whose Poop`s On My Boots? 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Grab the kids and meet a ranger to get the scoop on animal skins, tracks, and...poop! Make your very own track and scat bandana! more...
Cades Cove 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM Join a park ranger for an early morning open air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of life in Cades Cove. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Wednesday 7/29/2009
Heritaage Hunt 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Join a ranger for a program on the cemeteries of Cades Cove. After the talk, an activity booklet will be provided to discover the stories, mysteries and insight cemeteries give us about community life in the cove. more...
Junior Rangers: Extreme Explorers 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Do you like scavenger hunts? Bring your exploration tools and skills! Become a Nature Detective as you help a ranger look for clues about the animals and plants who live here. more...
Bald is Beautiful! Andrews Bald Hike 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Bring the family and join a ranger and enjoy the natural and scenic beauty of Andrews Bald. Learn about this unique high-elevation ecosystem and its history, while exploring some of the issues facing it, such as threats from the balsam woolly adelgid. more...
The Walker Sisters of Little Greenbrier 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Six sisters lived their long lives in this homestead the old-fashioned way. Join a ranger on this 2.2 mile roundtrip hike to learn about their fascinating history. more...
Junior Ranger: Cherokee Pottery 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Cherokees have been making pottery for…..how long? Come find out, and leave with a piece of pottery that you have created using the same methods employed by Qualla Boundary master craftspeople. more...
A Stitch In Time 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM Quilting is often referred to as putting memories into something practical. You can learn a practical way to keep the memories of your visit to the Smokies by making a quilted potholder. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Toymaking 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Designing and creating simple toys from wood added some fun to the life of children in Cades Cove.
more...
Seed to Table 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Have you ever wondered where your food comes from and how it gets to your table? Join a ranger to explore our heirloom vegetable garden and the many ways we
grow our food. more...
Junior Ranger: Batteries Not Included 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM What kinds of toys did kids play with in the "old days?" Join a ranger to discover (or remember!) how kids were entertained before video games and iPods. You`ll be able to take home a "buzz button" of your very own. more...
Let`s be a Scientist! 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM Ever dream of being a scientist? Join a ranger to try using scientific tools to study wildlife and forests. Be prepared to get "up-close-and-personal" to some of the critters that live in the Smokies! more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Thursday 7/30/2009
Junior Ranger Program: Art in the Park 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM National parks have inspired artists for years. Join a park ranger, become an artist and create some art of your own to take home. more...
Junior Ranger: Skins, Skulls, and Scat 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Learn about popular animals in the Smokies through hands-on exploration of animal skulls, skins, and other evidence. more...
Junior Ranger: Leaf Litter Critters 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Open your eyes to the world of soil organisms. Get up close and personal while you learn about these valuable creatures, the jobs they do, and what they tell us of forest health. more...
Become a GPS Guru! 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Join a ranger to experience an exciting outdoor adventure game known as earthcaching. Global Positioning System (GPS) units will be provided for use during the program. Limited to children 10 years and older. more...
See the Trees Through the Forest 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM There are over a hundred species of trees that grow in the national park. Join in on a walk along Fighting Creek to identify some of them. This program is an ideal family and "Junior Ranger" activity. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Highland Homeland 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Sit a spell on the front porch of the Ogle cabin and learn about the families who once lived here. Guided walk at 1:00 p.m. Short talks and stories presented from noon to 2:00 p.m. more...
Junior Rangers: Slimy Salamanders 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Join a Ranger to explore the damp, dark world of the park`s most popular amphibian. Be prepared to get a little wet and even a little dirty as we search for this slimy creature. more...
You Too Can Play the Hog Fiddle! 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Join a park ranger to learn about traditional mountain music and learn to play the “hog fiddle,” a.k.a. the mountain dulcimer. It’s so easy—give it a try! more...
Junior Ranger Program: Stream Splashers 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Roll up your pants and wade through a mountain stream to look for salamanders, damselflies, and other critters. Be prepared to get wet. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Night Hike 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM Move beyond the comfortable glow of the campfire and explore the Smokies nightlife. Limited to 25 participants.
Call 828/497-1904 up to four days in advance to make reservations.
more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Friday 7/31/2009
Junior Ranger Program 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM Join a park ranger to learn about one of the crafts used in the Cove. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Blacksmithing 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Join a Ranger in the blacksmith shop and make your own dinner bell to take home. Limited to children ages 10 and older. more...
Cataract Falls Walk 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Do you have a few minutes? Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking an easy stroll to a beautiful waterfall and learn more about the Great Smokies. more...
Cades Cove Mill Area Walk 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Join a park ranger for a guided walk through several of the historic structures that were important in the community. more...
Junior Ranger Program: Scavenger Hunt 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Would you like to hone your observation skills? Come join a scavenger hunt with a ranger to see what we can find. more...
WILD by Design 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM A talk and hands-on demonstration about the wild things in the park. more...
Cades Cove Evening Hayride 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. more...
Elkmont: The Rest of the Story 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Logging and tourism were both factors in the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Elkmont played a major role in this history. Join park staff as we walk back through time. more...
Cable Mill Demonstration 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mingus Mill Demonstration 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Chat with a miller and feel the rumble of this historic gristmill in action. more...
Mountain Farm Museum 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Join a ranger as they open and close the outdoor museum, feed the chickens and pigs, and maybe even do some gardening. more...
Cades Cove Night Hike 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM Listen to the spirits of Cades Cove. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. more...
Evening Campfire Program 9:00 PM to 9:45 PM Join a ranger for a national park tradition--the evening campfire program. Topics vary through the summer, but include "A Gift for all Time: The Creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park," "Mountain Life and Work: What Did People do Before the National Park?" and "Historic Structures: What Do You Build First?" You`re guaranteed to learn something new about the Great Smoky Mountains. more...
You may also search for upcoming events at this park using the search form below.
Don McGowan photo
Participate in a ranger-guided program to learn about the park.
Explore the park with a ranger! The summer schedule of ranger-guided programs will run from June 20 - August 15. Check back as more events are added.
Did You Know?
At 480 feet, Fontana Dam, located on the southwestern boundary of the park, is the tallest concrete dam east of the Rocky Mountains. The dam impounds the Little Tennessee River forming Fontana Lake and produces hydroelectric power.
