Naturalist Classes

The natural world is teeming with mystery, beauty, and wonder, often 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.

How do we share our love for nature with others? During this weekend-long course, we will spend our time exploring ways to interpret the world, while engaging and inspiring others with the great outdoors.

Learn bird habits, habitats, and physical and behavioral characteristics that help in their identification – all while connecting with fellow enthusiasts and enjoying the beauty of the national park.

In this weekend-long course, you’ll learn botanical terms, plant taxonomy, and plant family identification. You will participate in several field explorations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, during which you will investigate particular plant families and delve into the botanical patterns common to those families.

Learn about the ecology of the southern Appalachian mountains, particularly as it relates to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, through expert-led discussions and hands-on field trips to several unique forest habitats.

Discover the secret lives of reptile and amphibian species in the southern Appalachian mountains. Immerse yourself in a weekend of exploration and learning about these fascinating, secretive, and often feared and misunderstood creatures.

Where does the river begin and end? It may sound simple, but this course will challenge your preconceptions as you explore the unique ecology of aquatic systems in the southern Appalachian mountains, particularly as it relates to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

Learn about the ecology of the southern Appalachian mountains, particularly as it relates to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, through expert-led discussions and hands-on field trips to several unique forest habitats.

The natural world is teeming with mystery, beauty, and wonder, often 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.

From bears and bats to skunks and cottontails, the Smokies are home to many furry friends. In this course, you’ll explore the diversity of mammal species in the southern Appalachian mountains, from charismatic megafauna to smaller species that are often overlooked. 

The natural world is full of mystery, beauty, and wonder — often revealed only in fleeting glimpses. This immersive weekend course is designed to sharpen your skills as an observer, interpreter, and storyteller of the natural world, giving you the tools to carry your curiosity into any landscape.

How do you inspire others to love the outdoors as much as you do? This weekend course helps you develop the art of interpreting nature — weaving meaning, relevance, and joy into every outdoor experience.