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Discover the Smokies Through a Guide's Passion

The Great Smoky Mountains are one of the most diverse and fascinating landscapes in North America. From wildflowers and waterfalls to old-growth forests, mountain history, wildlife, and hidden corners of the park, there is always something new to discover.

Our Specialty Tours are designed around the unique passions and expertise of our guides. These are the subjects they can’t stop talking about—the things that first inspired them to become guides in the Smokies.

Want to stand beneath some of the largest trees in the eastern United States? Mike is your guide. Curious about the stories of the families who once called these mountains home? Samantha loves bringing Smoky Mountain history to life. Looking for a Girl Scout adventure, a creative nature experience, or a deeper understanding of the park’s wildlife? We have guides who specialize in those too.

These aren’t just hikes—they are immersive experiences built around a guide’s favorite Smoky Mountain subjects. Every Specialty Tour combines beautiful scenery, expert interpretation, and the enthusiasm of someone who genuinely loves sharing what makes this park extraordinary.

Join us and discover the Smokies through the eyes of the people who know and love them best.

Mike Matzko

Mike looking cool

Ancient Giants: A Smoky Mountain Old-Growth Forest Hike

Samantha Suttles

Samantha in front of LeConte Lodge Dining Hall

Echoes of the Smokies: A Historic Homestead Walk

Deb Troutman

Meet your Guide - Deb

Girl Scout Adventures in the Smoky Mountains

Luci Breeding

Our guide, Luci!

Bear Cub Adventure: A Kids’ Smoky Mountain Nature Walk

China Whitmire

Our Guide, China Whitmire

Twilight Ghosts & Legends: A Smoky Mountain Evening Walk

Train for the Appalachian Trail | Winter Shakedown

Kelly Hiscock

Our guide, Kelly, backpacking

Beat the Heat: Smoky Mountain River Snorkeling Adventure

Keith Watson

Our bird nerd, Keith

Smoky Mountains Birdwatching Adventure: Cades Cove

Smoky Mountains Birdwatching Adventure: High Elevation Habitats

Spring Tours

A time for the forests to awaken with Spring wildflowers. 

Bloom Chasers: Smoky Mountain Spring Wildflower Walk

The River Remembers: A Smoky Mountain History Walk

Summer Tours

Beat the heat with water focused tours and high elevation hikes.

Beat the Heat: Smoky Mountain River Snorkeling Adventure

Smoky Mountain Meadows in the Sky: Appalachian Bald

Fall Tours

Fall is all about those amazing Fall colors and cooler temperatures.

Fall Color Quest: Smoky Mountain Fall Foliage Hike with Transport

Boogie Woogie Bugle Tour: Elk Viewing in Cataloochee

Winter Tours

Winter in the Smokies is a great time to explore quieter trails. 

River Magic: An Easy Smoky Mountain Guided Walk

Into the Ancient Forest: Waterfalls & Old-Growth Adventure

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