Description:

This is episode 6.4, the fourth episode in our series on Great Smoky Mountains National Park. First, Bryan speaks with Dana Soehn, the parks spokesperson. Dana talks about recreation and how to tackle this vast and myriad park. Next, Danielle speaks with Brent McDaniel of the park’s nonprofit partner, Friends of The Smokies about insider tips for visitors.

Discussion includes the following:

· National Park Service plans to close Claude Moore Colonial Farm. Voice your opinion to save the farm. Visit 1771.org/savethefarm (0:28)

· Support the show on Patreon (1:18)

· Overview of the park’s services and activities (2:34)

· Recommendations for 1 week long trip (5:30)

· Kid-friendly hikes (9:07)

· Front country and backcountry camping (13:39)

· Lodging outside the Park and LeConte Lodge (20:40)

· Trout fishing (24:45)

· Cades Cove 11 mile loop bike ride (27:33)

· Guided horseback ride (28:27)

· Suggestions for mitigating crowds (29:22)

· Dana’s favorite Smokies Experience (32:31)

· Brent McDaniel’s Recommended hikes for families (36:30)

· Alternative activities – horseback riding, ranger programs, tubing, fishing (39:27)

· Other tips for planning a visit (44:34)

· Elk (47:52)

· Friends of the Smokies programs (50:38)

Resources:

Scavenger Hike Adventures (if website down, call Great Smoky Mountains Association to order by phone 888.898.9102, ext. 226.)

Hiking Trails of the Smokies

Day Hikes of the Smokies

Trillium Gap Trail

Three waterfall hike from Deep Creek Campground

Little Cataloochee

Things to Do

Quiet Walkways

Friends of the Smokies

Greenbrier hiking trails

Clingmans Dome

Gregory Bald

Great Smoky Mountains Ranger programs

Actions:

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