Tour Description: Among many of the unique features found in the Great Smoky Mountains, the grassy balds or meadows atop a few of the park’s peaks offer another unique habitat to explore. Though scientists are still debating their origins, they do know the bald mountain meadows were summer livestock grazing sites used by many of the early settlers. The forest has been allowed to reclaim some of the balds, but a select few are maintained, as they existed when the park was created.
The high mountains of the Smokys provide the protection, water, and shade necessary to create one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. With an estimated 100,000 different species of plants and animals residing here, there is an entire world of ecological discovery waiting to be explored.
On this interactive tour of one of the park's bald mountains, your guide will introduce you to the balds’ rare ecosystem through hands on experiments, interpretive discussions, and enhancement activities that challenge you to see this wonderful place in a different light. So, put that mountain bike back on the car, leave the running shoes for later, and put off shopping for another day. Load up the family and let’s go exploring.
This nature tour is a short 2.5 to 3 hour walk that focuses on the overall ecosystem within the Park. Looking for a longer, complete look at the Parks diversity? Check out our Half Day Highlands Nature Hike or Half Day Smoky Mountains Nature Hike.
Astounding Diversity: Situated between North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains have remained relatively undisturbed by ice age glaciers and ocean inundation for more than a million years. As a result, these mountains provided a refuge for thousands of plants and animals that were displaced during global climate change.
Today, the Smokys harbor an estimated 100,000 different species of plants and animals, and have been recognized as an International Biosphere by the United States of America.
WHY GO: Hands on activities, wildlife discussions, and plant identification are just a few of the ways you’ll connect with the nature on this trip. There are so many plants, animals, and scientific concepts to discover that you’ll want to take this trip year-after-year.
NEED TO KNOW: Guides: All tours are lead by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife, history, and culture. Sign up: Reservations are required. Experience: No experience is necessary. Ages: All ages are welcome. Children: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.COST: $34 for each adult. $19 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Two and a half hours of easy to moderate walking with several stops for water and historical discussions along the way. Tours go as fast as the slowest person and cover a little more than 3 miles.
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE: We limit each tour to 6 to 12 people per guide. Large private groups may exceed 12 people and may require more than one guide.
TOUR TIMES: This tour is offered Monday thru Sunday. Tours depart at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, & 5:00 pm. Reservations are required!
LOCATIONS: This tour is offered at the following locations Monday thru Sunday:
Clingmans Dome
RESERVATIONS: All of our tours require advance reservations. Typically, reservations for our morning tours must be made the previous day. Same day reservations for afternoon tours can be made up to two hours prior to the tour time.
To make a reservation, please call (828) 488-6688 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday thru Sunday.
MORE TOURS:We offer a wide variety of walking and hiking excursions for all ages and experience levels. (See all of our tours.)
WEATHER: The Smoky Mountains are known for its varied climate. Some of our tours hike through temperate rainforests where rainfall can reach more than 100 inches per year. As a nature company we believe that part of experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains is to be a part of the elements that create one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Be prepared to get wet any time of year. Tours depart rain or shine.
CELL PHNOE, CAMERAS & ELECTRONICS: Binoculars and cameras are welcome, but keep in mind that inclement conditions are possible.
Other electronics such as IPODs, cellular phones, and other electronics that disrupt the tours are not allowed.
Any participant whose actions disrupt the tour will be removed from the trip without a refund.
WHAT TO BRING: You should bring enough bottled water for each member of your party, 1 quart of water per person is usually sufficient. Guides carry a water filtration system to refill your bottles with fresh water along the way. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended on all tours, and they are essential on our high elevation hikes. A small backpack to carry your belongings is handy. Bring any medications or prescriptions that may be needed during the duration of the tour. If someone in your party is allergic to bee stings you must bring their epi pen.
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Do not bring expensive electronics, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or illegal drugs.
WHAT TO WEAR: You should wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. A sturdy pair of shoes is suitable for most trips, though comfortable hiking boots are recommended for half day and full day hikes. Do not wear a new pair of shoes or boots – your feet will regret it. The Smokys vary in elevation and so do the temperatures. Always be prepared for changes in weather by wearing layers that can be added or removed. Loose fitting pants and long sleeves are good for protecting you from the sun, insects, poison ivy, etc..
OTHER CONCERNS: Wondering about bugs, snakes, bears, or anything else? Click here for a list of commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
