Tracking is an ancient survival skill, but it can open up a whole new way of seeing the natural world around us. Tracking is a focus that enables us to be more aware, experience, and understand much more of the natural landscape.
We do not need to see the animals to tell that they were there, what they were doing, and when they might return. We'll learn their stories from the traces they have left behind. Slow down, look closer, and accept the challenge of tracking in the Smokies. You may be surprised by what you find.
We will introduce mammal tracking indoors at Great Smokies Welcome Center, Level 2, then travel to Cades Cove for a field experience.
Guide Wanda DeWaard
Activity Rating Easy Active: A light-impact experience requiring some physical activity.
Distance 1–2 miles (1.6–3.2 km)
Meeting Location Great Smokies Welcome Center, Level 2 (view map). There will be an option to carpool from the visitor center.
Event Location Great Smokies Welcome Center, Level 2, and Cades Cove
PLEASE NOTE: This session is located on the second level and will require participants to climb a flight of stairs.
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:
- Applicable field guides of interest
- Camera and binoculars
Required gear for all activities:
- Comfortable and sturdy shoes/boots
- Long, sturdy pants
- Rain gear and dress in layers for potentially changing weather
- Sun protection (sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Trekking poles or hiking staff to aid stability
- Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water
About Your Guide
Wanda DeWaard is an outdoor educator who has shared Earth Kinship and Outdoor Education with community groups, schools, camps, environmental centers and teacher conferences since 1975. She has been chasing monarchs since 1995, but anything and everything in the natural world brings out her enthusiasm and contagious sense of fun.
Wanda has created and directed youth and family programs throughout the United States, Canada, and Germany. Her experience includes time as a survival school instructor and camp director, 35 years as wilderness EMT, and NPS volunteer since 1996. She assisted in synchronous firefly research at Elkmont before the Park began to close the area, served as Program Director at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, and has been an instructor for UT Smoky Mountains Field School since 1997. She has also served as the Executive Director for the American Camp Association Heart of the South.
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.
__________________
Member Fee $45
Guest Fee $85
As a member, you are encouraged to bring along a guest. This fee includes admission to this event and a Park Keeper membership for your guest.