January 9th – 16th
Wilderness Wildlife Week in the Smoky Mountains
By Bennie McCann © 2009, All Rights Reserved
If you look at statistics from years past, January is not
traditionally a month when people travel. After having spent a
great deal of money during the preceding months, most folks
mistakenly believe they can’t afford a getaway. When you visit
the Smoky Mountains this January, however, you’re headed for a
great time that’s extremely affordable.
It’s called Wilderness Wildlife Week and for twenty years people
from across the country have headed to Pigeon Forge in the Smoky
Mountains to take part. Over 100 experts offer more than 175
seminars and hands-on workshops pertaining to plant and animal
life, Smoky Mountain history, photography, outdoor activities and
more. The best part is that these activities are not only
informative, they’re completely free. Take a look at some of
the classes that will be offered.
Professional Photography Classes
If you like to shoot, photographs that is, there’s plenty to
keep you busy. Classes will be taught on taking pictures
outdoors, including macro (close up) photography. In addition,
you can learn about building web pages for photographers. Where
else can you find this kind of instruction and not pay a cent?
Wilderness Survival Seminars
Numerous classes are available for those who like to camp, hike
and fish. Learn to interpret the signs of changing weather so
you can avoid being caught outside unprepared. Your chances of
getting lost will quickly diminish when you listen to experts
discuss the proper ways to use a map and compass. Other topics
include visual tracking, unique camping tricks and fishing in the
Smokies.
History and Music
History buffs will want to attend lectures on the Civil War in
the Smokies. You can also hear stories about Native Americans in
this area as well as the early settlers of Pigeon Forge. These
mountains have lots of stories to tell.
Music has always been an important part of the Smoky Mountains.
Look for classes on mountain music, gospel music and storytelling
that are native to this area. You can also get instruction on
playing the acoustic guitar and banjo. Whether you opt to attend
clogging classes or concerts by local musicians, get ready to
move your feet.
For the Kids
This event sounds great for adults, but what about the kids?
There’s plenty to keep them entertained as well. Start with the
Animal Olympics where kids will compare human senses to the
senses of wild animals. For the budding musicians, there’s a
hands-on class about mountain music and instruments designed just
for children. They will also get to see live animals and look at
hidden treasures from around the world.
Guided Hikes & Tours
Are you the type that would rather be doing something outside
than learning about it inside? With more than 50 guided walking
tours and hikes categorized from easy to strenuous and ranging
from one to 13 miles, there’s something for every interest and
fitness level. What’s more, you can’t find better scenery than
the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its breathtaking
waterfalls, mountains, plants and wildlife, you’ll find the
perfect combination of beauty and exercise.
Log Cabin Bargains
Concerned about the cost of lodging? Don’t be! Many log cabin
rentals in the Smokies cost less than hotel rooms and offer more
space and better centralized locations.
Don’t spend this January stuck at home. Wilderness Wildlife
Week is an inexpensive way to learn about one of the most
beautiful areas of our country. Rent a cabin and enjoy an
extremely affordable – and well-deserved – break after all the
holiday hustle and bustle.
Bennie McCann is Reservations Manager of Volunteer Cabin Rentals
specializing in Smoky Mountain rental cabins in Gatlinburg and
Pigeon Forge, TN. Visit them today at
http://www.volunteercabinrentals.com to book cabins for weddings,
vacations, reunions and other special events.