Join Smokies Life CEO Jacqueline Harp for a special members-only meet-and-greet and leisurely hike starting at Oconaluftee Visitor Center. This relaxed outing is the perfect opportunity to socialize with fellow members, learn about your impact as a member and the efforts of Smokies Life in the park, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Smokies. We'll venture about a mile along the Oconaluftee River Trail and through the outdoor Mountain Farm Museum before we head back. Once we return to the visitor center, we can explore the excellent galleries inside before stopping at the Smokies Life bookstore.
Guide Jacqueline Harp, CEO of Smokies Life
Activity Rating Easy Active: A light-impact experience requiring some physical activity.
Distance 2 miles (3.2 km)
Meeting Location Oconaluftee Visitor Center patio (view map)
Event Location Oconaluftee Visitor Center, Mountain Farm Museum, Oconaluftee River Trail
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
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
Jacqueline joined Smokies Life in fall 2024 after nearly 18 years at REI Co-op in various roles, most recently as its regional director for the southeastern United States. Prior to joining REI, Harp served as the marketing director of Harris YMCA in Charlotte, and she holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Queens University of Charlotte, where she also served as assistant director of student affairs.
In her current role as CEO of Smokies Life, Jacqueline brings her broad experience in the outdoor industry, proven strategic leadership and operational management skills, and deep commitment to partnership development and community engagement. Raised in East Tennessee, she is a lifelong advocate for Great Smoky Mountains National Park and an outdoor enthusiast who has completed the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certificate Program at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.
She serves on the board of Nashville-based TennGreen Land Conservancy and is board chair of Chattanooga-based Lookout Mountain Conservancy. “Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been an important backdrop for my life, shaping my memories in the outdoors and my passion for conservation and nature connection,” she said. “It is an honor to have an opportunity to contribute to the legacy of Smokies Life and the perpetual preservation of the park, and I look forward to continuing the organization’s strong, existing partnerships to deepen our members’ and all visitors’ connections to the Smokies.”
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.
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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.