Interpretive Service
Beginning in May and continuing for 6 months, a program of naturalist-guided field trips and talks is available. This service is maintained by the Government and is free to the public.
Naturalists meet hikers at designated points in or near the park and conduct visits to outstanding objectives over good trails. Plant and animal life is discussed informally along the way. There are several types of walks ranging from 2 hours to all day. Illustrated talks are given in the evenings at regular intervals, chiefly in hotel lobbies and other points of visitor-concentration.
Programs describing the nature-guide service are available (May-October) at headquarters and at Oconaluftee Ranger Station and are posted in hotels and various places throughout the park.