Backpacking and hiking are very rewarding experiences when you are prepared. During this Branch Out event, you’ll learn the basics, from tips on planning your hike and what to carry in your pack to the etiquette around watching wildlife and the basics of animal behavior. You’ll also learn how to cope with abrupt changes in weather, challenging terrain, and other unpredictable conditions.
Learning and practicing some basics will help you gain confidence and self-assurance that you know how to care for the wilderness and yourself. We’ll begin in the classroom with an introduction and some instruction on our topic. Then, we'll spend the rest of the day outdoors on a nearby Park trail, practicing what we learned in the classroom and learning more about how we can enhance our backcountry experience.
Guide Liz Domingue
Activity Rating Easy Active: A light-impact experience requiring some physical activity.
Distance 3–5 miles (4.8–8 km)
Elevation Gain Approx. 100 feet (30 m)
Meeting Location Great Smokies Welcome Center, Level 2, located at 7929 E Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882 (view map)
Event Location Great Smokies Welcome Center
Settings and Terrain
- Uneven trails
- Potential hazards, including exposed roots, downed trees, and rocks
- Potential wildlife presence, including large fauna, insects, and snakes
What to Bring
For this activity:
- Materials for taking notes
- Applicable field guides of interest
Required gear for all activities:
- Comfortable and sturdy shoes/boots
- Rain gear and dress in layers for potentially changing weather
- Sun protection (sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Trekking poles or hiking staff to aid stability
- Food and plenty of water
About Your Guide
Liz Domingue is a professional naturalist, educator, nature photographer, and guide with over 40 years of experience hiking, backpacking, photographing, and studying the natural world. Her interest in and study of natural history have been her lifelong pursuits and passions. As the originator and operator of her business, Just Get Outdoors, she leads interpretive hikes and Naturalist Adventure Tours regionally and throughout the United States. Liz also offers photography workshops and conducts environmental education programs for youth, adults, and fellow educators.
Liz has been a Branch Out program guide since the program’s inception. She has conducted Training Days for Smokies Life employees for over 20 years and operated Just Get Outdoors for 25 years.
Required Reading
Event Disclaimer
This information has been designed to be as accurate as possible; however, all programs are subject to change for multiple reasons, including weather.
Questions?
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Member Fee $45
Guest Fee $85
As a member, you are invited and encouraged to bring along a guest. This fee includes admission to this event and a year-long Park Keeper membership for your guest.