Sharing Nature with Children

Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains with Kids for $50

The Sharing Nature with Children tour in Gatlinburg, operated by A Walk in the Woods, offers an engaging 2-hour outdoor experience designed specifically for families and young explorers. With a price of $50 per person, this tour emphasizes interactive nature activities like games and salamander hunts, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting to introduce children to the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The tour departs from Sugarlands Visitor Center, a convenient starting point in the Cosby Picnic Area, and explores lush forests filled with wildflowers and a variety of wildlife. This experience is perfect for families who want a hands-on outdoor adventure with an expert guide and small group sizes, ensuring plenty of attention and personalized fun.

While this tour is booked an average of 29 days in advance, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity, providing flexibility in planning. The focus on nature education, outdoor games, and getting muddy makes it one of the most lively and educational outings for children in the Smokies.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 11 participants for a more personal connection with the guide
• Family-Friendly Focus: Designed to attract children with fun activities and outdoor exploration
• Inclusion of Snacks and Guide: All fees, taxes, and a professional guide are covered in the price
• Location: Starts at Sugarlands Visitor Center and explores Cosby Picnic Area
• Physical Engagement: Expect to get wet and muddy, ideal for active kids
• Book 29 Days in Advance: The tour sees consistent demand, so early booking is recommended

The Meeting Point at Sugarlands Visitor Center

The tour begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, located at 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd in Gatlinburg. This central location offers easy access for families staying in Gatlinburg or nearby areas. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same spot, allowing for convenient pickup or casual continuation of your day in the Smokies.

The small group size of up to 11 guests ensures a relaxed environment where kids can freely explore and participate in activities. The professional guide, highly praised for being passionate, patient, and knowledgeable, leads the group through the various stops, sharing interesting facts and making sure everyone stays engaged.

Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the core of this experience, offering lush forests and year-round wildflowers. The park’s free admission makes it an accessible backdrop for this outdoor adventure. The tour focuses on wildlife spotting, particularly salamanders, and encourages children to focus their attention through nature games.

The park’s landscape is perfect for exploring nature’s wonders without the need for long hikes or strenuous activity. The guide ensures that the experience remains fun and educational, with opportunities for kids to learn about local flora and fauna while having a good outdoor time.

The Cosby Picnic Area as a Natural Classroom

The Cosby Picnic Area is a key stop within the tour, offering a scenic setting for outdoor activities. It’s here that children get to soak in the fresh air and participate in games designed to spark enthusiasm for nature. The area also serves as a spot to look for salamanders and other wildlife, making it a hands-on ecological lesson.

The picnic area’s natural surroundings provide a perfect environment for muddy adventures, which kids often love. The guide has emergency ponchos on hand in case of rain, so weather won’t spoil the fun.

Activities and Games in the Forest

The core of this tour is interactive nature games and activities aimed at encouraging attention and curiosity. These games are tailored to engage children of all ages, making the exploration both educational and entertaining. Expect to get wet and muddy, which adds to the excitement and sense of adventure.

Children are encouraged to look for salamanders and observe the forest’s wildlife up close. The experience emphasizes learning through play, helping children connect with nature in a relaxed, informal setting. The guide’s passion and patience shine through as they explain the forest’s features and wildlife.

Practical Logistics and What’s Included

The tour covers all fees and taxes, with snacks provided to keep energy levels high. Bottled water is not included, so bringing your own is recommended for hydration. The tour features a professional guide who is both knowledgeable and engaging.

Participants should note that transportation is not included**, so families need to arrange their own travel to the meeting point. Parking tags are not included either, but they can be purchased in advance through the specified website. The activity is suitable for most, with good weather being essential for the best experience.

What to Expect at the End of the Tour

The tour concludes back at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, making it easy for families to continue their day exploring Gatlinburg or other parts of the park. The small group size ensures everyone finishes the experience with personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

Families often find this experience to be a great way to bond outdoors while learning about the Smokies in a fun, informal manner. The enthusiasm of the guide and the interactive nature of the activities make it a memorable outing.

The Guide: Passionate and Knowledgeable

Based on high praise, the guide, especially Ms Debbie, is recognized for her fabulous, passionate, and knowledgeable approach. She takes time to share interesting facts and make the experience engaging for children. Her patience and enthusiasm are consistently noted as key strengths, making the tour enjoyable for all ages.

This personal touch is what elevates the experience, turning a simple walk into a learning adventure that children remember.

Suitability and Ideal Participants

This tour is most suitable for families with children who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable getting wet and muddy. It’s an excellent way to introduce kids to nature, wildlife, and the Great Smoky Mountains, all in a relaxed, fun environment.

Participants should be prepared for weather variations and bring plenty of water, but the emergency ponchos help ensure the weather doesn’t dampen the fun. The 2-hour duration makes it ideal for families wanting a short yet enriching outdoor activity.

The Sum Up: A Fun and Educational Family Nature Tour

The Sharing Nature with Children tour offers a hands-on, family-friendly way to experience the Great Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg. With interactive games, wildlife spotting, and a passionate guide, it delivers value at $50 per person, especially considering all fees and snacks are included.

While getting wet and muddy might not appeal to everyone, it’s precisely what makes this tour memorable and fun for children. The small group size and personalized approach ensure a relaxed, engaging experience that encourages a deeper connection with nature.

This outing is perfect for families seeking an active, educational adventure that keeps kids engaged while exploring the natural beauty of the Smokies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, transportation is not included; families need to arrange their own travel to the meeting point at Sugarlands Visitor Center.

What should I bring for the activity?
Bring plenty of water, and consider rain gear if the weather forecast predicts rain. Emergency ponchos are provided if needed.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the maximum group size?
The maximum group size is 11 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, making it ideal for families with children, but young kids should be comfortable with getting wet and muddy.

What is included in the tour?
All fees and taxes, snacks, and a professional guide are included.

Are there any hidden costs?
Parking tags are not included but can be purchased separately; drinks are not provided, so bring your own bottled water.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by A Walk in the Woods.

What do reviewers say about the guide?
Reviewers praise the guide, especially Ms Debbie, for being passionate, patient, and knowledgeable—making the experience both fun and educational.