Great Smoky Mountains National Park Invites Visitors to Experience Storybook Trail
So many people find themselves and their children indoors and in front of screens more and more. In an effort to get people out in nature and reading books, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the University of Tennessee have come together to create the Storybook Trail of the Smokies. Learn more about the Storybook Trail of the Smokies below:
Storybook Trail of the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has partnered with University of Tennessee Extension Institute of Agriculture and Great Smoky Mountains Association to create Storybook Trail of the Smokies. This trail was part of an initiative created to promote literacy in nature.
You will be able to experience a book themed trail dedicated to the Smokies on the Cosby Nature Trail. This trail is 1 mile long and considered easy. There will be several trailside activities and story pages along the trail to read. These activities will run from April 3 through May 30, 2021. Check out the Facebook page for more information!
Books Used on the Trail
The initiative is dedicated to creating a new, immersive way for young readers to experience reading and being outside in nature. Over the eight week period, there will be four books highlighted along the trail. Each book will have two weeks on the trail and include educational prompts. They are aimed at different reading levels. All of the books have been published by the Great Smoky Mountains Association.
The lineup for spring 2021 includes The spring book line-up includes “We’re Going to the Mountains” by Steve Kemp, “The Salamander Ball” by Lisa Horstman, “Singing Creek” by Morgan Simmons, and “The Troublesome Cub” by Lisa Horstman. On the first Saturday each book is used, the author will be at the trailhead to interact with kids and adults.
More About the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you decide to come check out the Storybook Trail of the Smokies, you should spend more time in the national park! There are so many great activities you and your kids can enjoy. Check out these fun things to do in the national park:
Ride Through Cades Cove
A great family activity is to drive through Cades Cove. You can get out and explore at any point along the 11-mile road. There are historic buildings you can explore, and there are several that have placards that provide more information on the history of the area and the buildings. You can learn and enjoy nature at the same time in Cades Cove!
Have a Picnic
Another fun activity to do as a family is have a picnic! There are several picnic sites throughout the national park, including beside Cades Cove. You can pack sandwiches or pick up a to-go meal from a restaurant and take it to the mountains. Then you can play in the creek or explore the trails nearby.
You don’t want to miss out on the Storybook Trail of the Smokies! Want to know what else you can do other than explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Look through these attractions in the Smoky Mountains for more ideas!
