February 2023

The Cumberland Trails Conference has named Savana Keeton as its executive director. She will lead the Crossville-based CTC in its mission to complete the 300-mile-long Cumberland Trail that traverses eleven Tennessee counties. Read more. Cumberland Trails Conference (Photo: Cumberland Trails Conference)

The Tennessee RiverLine announced the recipients of its 2022 awards at the 6th annual Tennessee RiverLine Summit, which was held in Guntersville, AL, January 23, 24 and 25, 2023 at Lake Guntersville State Park. The Tennessee RiverLine’s awards program recognizes communities, individuals, and organizations who best demonstrate leadership through their commitment to the transformational vision

Cookeville, Tennessee is considered to be a hidden gold mine of waterfalls. Within a 40-mile radius of Cookeville’s downtown, there are over 150 documented waterfalls and many scenic overlooks. Depending on your hiking experience level, within four days, you can plan to experience seven waterfalls, four overlooks and many state natural areas and state parks.  Read

TennGreen Land Conservancy and partners continue to complete extensive habitat improvements at Soak Creek Farm. Located on the Cumberland Plateau, this 2,000-acre property was generously donated to TennGreen by George Lindemann in 2020. The restoration work aims to restore and protect the natural areas on this vast property. Proactive restoration projects include prescribed burns, hemlock treatments, shortleaf

Tennessee’s 57th state park, Savage Gulf State Park is a backpacker’s destination for hiking and backcountry camping. Formed from portions of the South Cumberland State Park, Savage Gulf is among Tennessee’s most scenic wilderness areas, with sheer sandstone cliffs, rugged canyons, and waterfalls.  Read more. Etta Pettijohn – Tennessee River Valley Geotourism (Photo: Bob Butters)

“Everesting” got its start with cycling but is not now spreading the globe as a pedestrian experience. It’s a simple concept: climb hills until you reach the height of Mt. Everest at 29,032′. With this month-long challenge, March 1-31, the total amount of climbing works out to a little over 936’ per day or roughly

It’s time for the South to spill one of its most important secrets: when it comes to biological diversity, it’s #1. Most folks think that the purple mountain majesties out West shelter the most wildlife. The vast Western landscapes are home to a lot of large, charismatic wildlife. But the most biologically diverse place in

The 65-mile stretch of highway that runs through the Sequatchie Valley has always been recognized locally for its small-town charm and idyllic rural enchantment. But in 2021 its picturesque appeal and rich heritage gained formal recognition as a national treasure as a national scenic byway. Read more. Tennessee River Valley Geotourism Mapguide (Photo: Bob Butters)

The City of Chattanooga Parks and Outdoors Department is currently hiring a Director of Park Stewardship and Maintenance in addition to a Tree Canopy Coordinator. Apply for one of these positions today and make an impact for Chattanoogans now and many years to come! Learn more about these openings (scroll to the bottom), reflections from a land conservation apprentice, a