One of the largest gatherings of wildlife experts and enthusiasts in the Southeast, the event features activities for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Headquartered at The Ramsey Hotel & Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, the event also offers off-site trips throughout Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  

This winter celebration of the great outdoors is free and open to the public. Online registration for all hikes, trips and craft classes begins on Jan. 15 at 10 a.m. Eastern at MyPigeonforge.com/event/wilderness-wildlife-week.

For three decades, Wilderness Wildlife Week has introduced thousands of attendees to some of the country’s leading wildlife experts. Attendees have access to a full roster of topics and experts who highlight the nature, terrain, culture, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. The event has won numerous awards for its variety of presenters, overall attendance, and ability to offer attendees opportunities to interact with fellow enthusiasts over a broad range of topics.  

Outdoor excursions of all levels are available throughout the week. Highlights include a four-mile hike to Huskey Branch Falls, traveling past the remains of some of the very first tourist homes along with the famous “Troll Bridge” and learning about the history of the once booming logging industry of the early nineteen hundreds (Feb. 1 at 9 a.m.). Bus trips include a guided tour of the American Eagle Foundation’s new facilities (Jan. 28, 29 and 30 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.). Six Pink Jeep Tour excursions are available on Jan. 28, 29, and 30 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and Appalachian Bear Rescue tours take place on Jan. 28 and 29 at 9 a.m.

Nearly 40 exhibits and vendors, including the not-for-profit Cades Cove Preservation Association, Smokies Life (formerly Great Smoky Mountains Association), Great Smoky Mountain Homesite Preservation Program and Keep Sevier Beautiful, are open daily during the event beginning at 10 a.m.