Can’t make this date? Check out our spring Naturalist Skills class.

The natural world is teeming with mystery, beauty, and wonder, often only experienced only through fleeting glimpses. Become a better observer of natural phenomena, learn how to provoke your curiosity and ask meaningful questions, and discover new ways to document your outdoor experiences so you can learn and grow as a naturalist.

Becoming a naturalist is a lifelong process of nurturing one’s sense of wonder while discovering and experiencing the riches found in the natural world. We teach these skills as a way of looking at and living in the world. In this course, we will focus on learning and practicing skills that will connect you to nature in significant ways. We will take inspiration and tips from the rich history of naturalist-explorers, learn to use a journal as a place to capture observations and grow, and share our wonder and curiosity with each other as we discover the secrets of the world around us. 

By the end of this class, you will not only have a newfound appreciation for the natural world but also a practical set of skills that will forever enrich your experiences outdoors. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced naturalist, all are warmly welcomed to embark on this delightful journey with us.

Cost: $494
Registration includes instruction, food, and lodging in our dorm inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

 

This is one of eight core courses in the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program (SANCP). Take one for fun, or take them all to receive certification through the University of Tennessee.

Already Registered? Check out the welcome letter for required readings, a tentative itinerary, and other essential details for your stay.

Cover photo by Jason Deck.