Spring in the Smoky Mountains: FREE National Park Events

08
Mar
2025

FREE National Park Events

If you’re heading to the Smoky Mountains this month, we’re guessing it’s because you want to witness them ‘bursting to life’ during the spring season. There’s no better way to do that than to lace up those hiking boots and head to the hills! Below are several opportunities for you to join a guided Smoky Mountains National Park hike or just listen and learn about the park’s culture, history and staying safe from those adorable black bears. Pack a picnic and enjoy Sugarlands Welcome Center, Cades Cove, and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center for the entire day!

Book Your Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Cabin for Smoky Mountains National Park Spring Events — Book Your Cabin for Two and Head to The Smoky Mountains This Spring!

Nature Trail Hike (April 3-24)
Take a walk through the Smoky Mountains with a park ranger and explore the rich history and natural beauty of the area. From April 3 to 24, join in every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a hike that will transport you back in time as you learn about the history of the land and its wildlife. Sugarland Welcome Center.

Portraits of the Cove (April 4-25)
Step back in time with this historical program where you’ll venture up to the John Oliver Cabin in Cades Cove to learn about the life and culture of early settlers in the Smokies. Every Friday beginning at 10:30 a.m., you can experience what life was like in the 19th century in this beautiful and serene setting. Second John Oliver parking lot at Cades Cove.

Cove Life (April 4-25)
Every Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., attend this talk to learn about the Cades Cove community and see how the first permanent European settlers lived and worked. This fascinating program leads you through history, discovering the tools, crafts, and chores that helped these early settlers survive in the Smokies. John Oliver Cabin, Cades Cove

Down on the Farm (April 5-26)
Get your hands dirty and discover life in the Smokies during the 19th century! Engage with living historians and park rangers every Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon to see traditional skills demonstrations such as blacksmithing, fence making, and hearth cooking in action. Mountain Farm Museum near Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

Wildflower Wander at West Prong Trail (April 5-26)
Spring means wildflowers, and there’s no better place to see them than along the West Prong Trail. Join a ranger on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to meander through this picturesque trail and discover the changing blooms of the season. West Prong Trail Trailhead. Please note, there will be no program on April 12 due to the Signs of Spring event in Cades Cove.

Wild About the Smokies (April 5-26)
If you’ve ever wondered where to spot wildlife in the Smokies (or how to do it safely), this program is for you! Join a ranger every Saturday from 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. to learn about the park’s diverse wildlife, including bears and elk, and what scientists are doing to study them. Oconaluftee Visitor Center porch.

Bear Aware in Cades Cove (April 6-27)
For those visiting Cades Cove, don’t miss this informative program on bear safety! Learn about these majestic creatures, how to spot them, and what to do if you encounter one. Join rangers every Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon for a quick, informative chat. Cades Cove Orientation Shelter (before the entrance to the Cades Cove Loop Road).

Signs of Spring (April 12)
Mark your calendars! Join us for Signs of Spring in beautiful Cades Cove on Saturday, April 12, 2025, in celebration of American Sign Language (ASL) Day. This exciting event, in partnership with the Knoxville Center of the Deaf, Partnership for Families, Children and Adults, Maryville High School, University of Tennessee, and Maryville College, is an unforgettable experience for all ages.

From 9 a.m.-3 p.m., explore the stunning Cades Cove at your own pace while enjoying both spoken and signed programs presented by park educators and local ASL interpreters. Drop by interactive stations throughout the cove for a unique, inclusive experience that celebrates nature and communication. Our friendly staff will be available at the orientation shelter to help you make the most of your visit. Plus, student and certified ASL interpreters will be stationed throughout the cove to ensure everyone can enjoy the beauty of Cades Cove in a whole new way. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and experience the magic of spring! Cades Cove—Spoken and American Sign Language programs will occur throughout the Cove for the duration of the event.