Bears, Birds & Wildflowers of the Great Smoky Mountains
Join Environmental Adventure Company as they explore the Great Smoky Mountains National, an area rich in ecological diversity and cultural history. More than 4,000 species of plants grow here qualifying it as an International Biosphere Reserve and a haven for bears, birds and wildflowers. The Smokies also celebrates a rich cultural history. Designated as a World Heritage Site, the park's inventory of Appalachian cultural items from the 19th and early 20th centuries are true jewels. From the Cherokee Indians, to the Scotch-Irish settlers, this land was home to a variety of cultures and people. You will enjoy an inside look at this magnificent area of the country.
A park biologist will join the trip as you examine the myths, reality and human influence of the black bear. In addition, a park naturalist will help you identify the numerous wildflowers and bird species. This is a very special ecology weekend not to be missed!
Highlights:
Discover wildlife ecology with a local black bear biologist.
Visit the Smokies during the spring eruption of wildflower color.
Learn about the cultural history of the park from resource experts.
View and hear a vast array of migratory songbirds.
Tour Details
Duration
4 Days/3 Nights
Location
Great Smoky Mountains
Season
April 15–18, 20–23, and 27–30, 2006
Tour Type
Fully Guided
Nearest City
Knoxville, TN
Physical Condition Required
Fair
Destination(s)
Tennessee, United States
Accommodations
Three Nights Accommodation Included
Dining
All Meals Included
Rates
$1,095.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Knoxville to Townsend, TN Arrive in Knoxville, TN where you will be met by your guides for the weekend. As you are transferred to Townsend, TN, ‘gateway to the Smokies’, you will have your first view of the vast rolling hills and “smoke” that give this treasured area its name.
After a dinner of local fare, a local black bear biologist will present a slide program on black bear ecology including, habitat preferences, population density, distribution and current management techniques. Overnight at Talley Ho Inn (D)
Day 2: Great Smoky National Park and Cades Cove After an early breakfast, travel into Great Smoky National Park through some of the last remaining old-growth timber sections to Cades Cove. An area rich in wildlife and cultural history, Cades Cove is a wonderful place for spotting wildlife. Its wide open fields and meadows welcome small mammals as well as the elusive black bear.
Joined by a park biologist, you will take an easy hike to a bear research site while looking for wildlife and animal signs along the way. A picnic lunch is provided this day to take in the serenity and the spectacular fields of wildflowers.
An evening interpretive program on various ecological aspects of the park will be offered after dinner. Overnight at Talley Ho Inn (B,L,D)
Day 3: Great Smoky National Park, Newfound Gap and Clingman’s Dome After breakfast, travel into the Smokies and visit the park headquarters and the Sugarlands Visitor Center. After an opportunity to acquire books and literature, you will ascend to 5,048’ and Newfound Gap, located on the state line bordering Tennessee and North Carolina. Arriving at Newfound Gap, take an easy hike on the Appalachian Trail.
Accompanied by a park biologist, you'll investigate the area for signs of wildlife. In addition, you will learn about devastating effects on bears by humans as well as the ecological impacts of the introduced nonnative wild hog by sportsmen.
After a picnic lunch, visit Clingman’s Dome. At 6,643’, Clingman’s is the highest point in TN and an easy hike offers unsurpassed views of this wonderful National Park. A visit to Gatlinburg is scheduled in the late afternoon, where you can take time to visit some of the many shops and galleries that line the streets. Later, you'll enjoy a farewell social and dinner. Overnight at Talley Ho Inn (B,L,D)
Day 4: Townsend to Knoxville, Tennessee After breakfast, return to the airport in Knoxville, TN for your return flights.
Notes
Weather The Black Bear Weekend in the Smokies tour is located in areas where the weather may change at a moment's notice. Temperatures, although normally warm, can vary greatly and one must be prepared in the event the weather turns for the worst. Keep in mind that you may be a distance from the vehicle or protection. Being in the presence of weather changes is a large part of the experience, but can be miserable if one is not prepared for the change. Preparation is the key!
Physical Activity Most everyone in a reasonably good physical condition can participate in this tour offered by the Environmental Adventure Company. The activities will include some hiking in conditions ranging from snow and mud to dry conditions. Standing and observing for periods of time and kneeling or squatting to examine wildlife tracks or signs, are part of the activities. Consult with your physician if you have questions about the program. It is your responsibility to let the tour operator know of any complications that may be associated with traveling under any of these conditions.
Pre-Departure Information When you sign-up for an adventure, you will receive a detailed Pre-Departure information packet prior to your trip which will help you prepare. This packet will help you make decisions about what to bring – and what not to bring! It includes a reading list, a clothing recommendation page as well as information on what to expect the weather to do while you are at the destination! There is also information about necessary documents, health issues, and even photographic tips. Feel free to contact EAC for more information.
COMPLIMENTARY VISITOR GUIDES
Click on any visitor guide below to request a free copy.
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