The expression “for the birds” is a dismissive remark. If something is “for the birds,” it’s meaningless, not worth bothering about.
But here in Knox County, we have Seven Islands State Birding Park, and it’s really something – for the birds, and for humans. Set along the French Broad River in Kodak, it’s 416 acres of former farmland that offers habitat to more than 190 species of birds.
In the five years since it opened, Seven Islands has turned into a bustling destination for lovers of the outdoors.
Just this weekend, for example, Seven Islands is offering a sunset hike tonight (7/19), a Scouts Leading Scouts orienteering session Saturday morning and a boating, birding and hiking excursion Saturday night.
Next Wednesday, July 24, is the monthly Birding with Friends hike. On Saturday, July 27, Ranger Stephanie will lead a two-mile morning run and talk about how to start a running routine and train for a 5K.
On Sunday, July 28, master bander Mark Armstrong will lead a bird-banding session that lets folks get up close and personal with wild birds.
Most of the programs are free or low cost, and the experiences themselves are priceless. Treat yourself and visit Seven Islands soon.
For more ideas about getting outside, check out the Outdoor Knoxville calendar.
Carol Evans is executive director of Legacy Parks Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to ensuring that our community enjoys exceptional recreational opportunities, natural beauty and open spaces, and that those assets exist for generations to come.
The French Broad River at Seven Islands State Birding Park (Photos from www.tnstateparks.com)