Tour Description: Our evening sunset stroll begins just inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Accompany your guide on a walk to one of the park’s pristine vantage points to soak up the sunset. Along the way, you’ll discuss the rich human history created before the formation of the park, the ecological transformation that occurs within the park as day dips into night, and the nocturnal creatures that roam the wilderness each evening.
Just after sunset, Appalachian wildlife such as black bear, cottontail rabbits, flying squirrels, red fox, and many others leave their dens and begin the nightly pilgrimage in search of the food and water they need to survive. Fireflies take flight in search of mates, salamanders leave the comforts of their rocky homes, and the woods take on a much different atmosphere.
Early evening and early morning provide the best times for wildlife viewing. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, if you are interested in partaking in a little wildlife spotting, this is the tour for you.
Wildlife at Dusk: Humans rely heavily on our sense of sight, which explains why we are afraid of the dark. In the wilderness, we hear unknown sounds and our imaginations run wild. In reality, harmless animals create most of the scary sounds we hear. While on our sunset nature tour, listen closely to the sounds you hear. You might be surprised to learn that the forest’s small, harmless creatures are creating many of those terrifying sounds. Their shrieks, shrills, and piercing cries help protect them from predators, communicate with their peers, and navigate the night.
WHY GO: There is nothing like the sight of an Appalachian sunset from one of the park’s many ridges. Not to mention the temperature drops and the wind lies down as dusk approaches. If you're looking to beat the heat and add a little romance to your vacation this is the tour for you. The guides focus on the wildlife and encourage each group to relax and have a great time.
NEED TO KNOW: Guides: All tours are lead by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife, history, and culture. Sign up: Reservations are required. Experience: No experience is necessary. Ages: All ages are welcome. Children: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.COST: $34 for each adult. $19 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Two and a half hours of easy to moderate walking with several stops for water and historical discussions along the way. Tours go as fast as the slowest person and cover a little more than 3 miles.
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE: We limit each tour to 6 to 12 people per guide. Large private groups may exceed 12 people and may require more than one guide.
TOUR TIMES: This tour is offered Monday thru Sunday. Tours depart at 8:00 pm. Reservations are required!
LOCATIONS: This tour is offered at the following locations Monday thru Sunday:
Newfound Gap
Clingmans Dome
RESERVATIONS: All of our tours require advance reservations. Typically, reservations for our morning tours must be made the previous day. Same day reservations for afternoon tours can be made up to two hours prior to the tour time.
To make a reservation, please call (828) 488-6688 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday thru Sunday.
MORE TOURS:We offer a wide variety of walking and hiking excursions for all ages and experience levels. (See all of our tours.)
WEATHER: The Smoky Mountains are known for its varied climate. Some of our tours hike through temperate rainforests where rainfall can reach more than 100 inches per year. As a nature company we believe that part of experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains is to be a part of the elements that create one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Be prepared to get wet any time of year. Tours depart rain or shine.
CELL PHNOE, CAMERAS & ELECTRONICS: Binoculars and cameras are welcome, but keep in mind that inclement conditions are possible.
Other electronics such as IPODs, cellular phones, and other electronics that disrupt the tours are not allowed.
Any participant whose actions disrupt the tour will be removed from the trip without a refund.
WHAT TO BRING: You should bring enough bottled water for each member of your party, 1 quart of water per person is usually sufficient. Guides carry a water filtration system to refill your bottles with fresh water along the way. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended on all tours, and they are essential on our high elevation hikes. A small backpack to carry your belongings is handy. Bring any medications or prescriptions that may be needed during the duration of the tour. If someone in your party is allergic to bee stings you must bring their epi pen.
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Do not bring expensive electronics, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or illegal drugs.
WHAT TO WEAR: You should wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. A sturdy pair of shoes is suitable for most trips, though comfortable hiking boots are recommended for half day and full day hikes. Do not wear a new pair of shoes or boots – your feet will regret it. The Smokys vary in elevation and so do the temperatures. Always be prepared for changes in weather by wearing layers that can be added or removed. Loose fitting pants and long sleeves are good for protecting you from the sun, insects, poison ivy, etc..
OTHER CONCERNS: Wondering about bugs, snakes, bears, or anything else? Click here for a list of commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
