Outdoor fun needs a helping hand at times, from both experts and lay volunteers. The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont has two special weekend courses coming up Jan. 25-27: Wilderness Emergency Medical Responder Refresher and Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program. If you want to be useful but have only a few hours, there are trail workdays at Haw Ridge (Jan. 19) and Sharp’s Ridge Memorial Park (Jan. 26), a workday in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Jan. 24) and a clean-up along the riverbank at Seven Islands State Birding Park (Jan. 26).
Friday, Jan. 18
Friday Fun Run: 6:30 p.m., Pour Taproom. Free. Info: 865 Running. Run 3 miles downtown, World’s Fair Park and river walk; then drinks with 10 percent off. All levels welcome.
Saturday, Jan. 19
Calhoun’s 10 Miler: 8 a.m., Calhoun’s Oak Ridge Marina. Info: Knoxville Track Club. Course time limit is 2 hours and 15 minutes. Course is open to traffic. Headphones are prohibited.
Bike Zoo Saturday Ride: 9 a.m., Bike Zoo. Free. Info: Bike Zoo at 865-558-8455. 3-hour ride of 50+ miles at a fast pace of 18-20 mph. Weather permitting.
Third Saturday Hike: 9 a.m., UT Arboretum Auditorium. Free. Info: UT Arboretum at 865-483-3571. Hikes will be varied in intensity level, and the route may be changed due to weather conditions or leader’s choice. This hike will be led by a volunteer familiar with the UT Arboretum and the trail system.
Fly Fishing 101: 9 a.m., 3 Rivers Angler. Free. Info: 3 Rivers Angler at 865-200-5271. Each class teaches the basics of rigging, casting and other intro-to-fly-fishing skills. All of the gear and instruction is provided free of charge. Space is limited so please make sure to sign up well in advance.
Haw Ridge Work Day: 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Haw Ridge Park. Free. Info: Clinch Valley Trail Alliance. Come out to support a few remaining projects that need to be wrapped up within the park before we shift our focus to a new Skills Park and Pump track. Plenty of tools for everyone; just bring work gloves. Lunch provided.
Nature Hike: 10 a.m., Panther Creek State Park Horse Trailer Parking Lot. Free. Info: Panther Creek State Park at 423-587-7046. Come out and join Ranger Jammie on the Old Farm Trail as we look for signs of the old farms. We will also be on the lookout to see what animals may be out and about during the morning hours.
Resolution Ride: 10 a.m., Cycology Bicycles. Free. Info: Cycology Bicycles at 865-681-4183. Join us for our third annual Resolution Ride, a free social-paced ride of 15 or 35 miles over gently rolling terrain.
Sunday, Jan. 20
Tellico Blockhouse Tour: 1 p.m., Tellico Blockhouse. Cost: $5. Info: Fort Loudoun State Historic Park at 423-420-2331. Join us for this mile-long walk around the ruins of the Tellico Blockhouse. This ranger-led walk will look at the significance of the site in the annals of U.S. history and explore archaeology to paint a picture of its existence. Rain or shine. Register online.
Intro to Climbing: 1 p.m., Onsight Rock Gym. Info: Onsight Rock Gym at 865-888-9123. Learn the basics of top rope belaying, knot tying and climbing technique in this hands-on class. Designed for those with no previous climbing experience, this course teaches the necessary skills required to climb independently.
Tracking Down Nature: 2 p.m., Ijams Nature Center. Cost: $8. Info: Ijams Nature Center at 865-577-4717, ext. 110. This month we are tracking down nature by playing tracking games, identifying poop and using our noses to sniff out clues. Be sure to bring your camera phone with you as there will also be a PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT. Bring the whole family as everyone has a part to play. Register online.
MTB Group Ride: Norris Watershed: 2 p.m. Norris Watershed. Free. Info: Cedar Bluff Cycles at 865-692-1010. This will be a great opportunity to get familiar with the trails and enjoy a casual-paced 12-16 miles of double-track and single-track with some small obstacles and steeper hills. There will be climbing, but you will be rewarded with fun descents. Details online.
Build Your Own Hiking Stick: 3 p.m., Panther Creek State Park. Cost: $15. Info: Panther Creek State Park at 423-587-7046. We will be using files, rasps, sandpaper and hammers to construct our very own hiking stick with a Panther Creek Medallion nailed onto the handle. All materials needed for this program will be provided. Limited to 12 participants. Meet at the Upper Campground Shelter.
Yoga for Climbers: 7 p.m., River Sports Outfitters. Cost: $8. Info: River Sports Outfitters at 865-523-0066. Join us for yoga every Sunday. Participants will receive a 20 percent off PrAna & Lole card.
Observe Total Lunar Eclipse of the Super Moon: 9:30 p.m., Obed Wild & Scenic River. Free. Info: Obed Wild & Scenic River at 423-346-6294. Join Ranger Rick Ryan and guest speaker Dr. F. Owen Hoffman to enjoy this rare celestial occurrence. The park will have telescopes and binoculars set up for sky observations, including the park’s 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector telescope. Visitors will have an opportunity to take smartphone pictures through the park’s telescopes of the various phases of the eclipse. Amateur astronomers are also invited to bring their telescopes to join the program and may contact the visitor center for more information.
Monday, Jan. 21
KTC Group Run: 6 p.m., Balter Beerworks. Free. Info: Knoxville Track Club. Monday evening social-pace group run; afterward, stick around for a discounted beer.
South Knox Fun Run: 6:30 p.m., Alliance Brewing Company. Free. 865 Running. Social pace 3ish-mile run; come back for $1 beers. All levels are welcome.
Bearden Beer Market Fun Run: 6:30 p.m., Bearden Beer Market. Free. Info: Bearden Beer Market at 865-851-8922. Group Fun Run through the neighborhood. Open to all levels of walkers and runners; followed by $1 off all pints.
Group Run Alcoa/Maryville Greenway: 6:30 p.m., Bike N’Tri in Maryville. Free. Info: Bike N’Tri at 615-944-1729. Group run on the Alcoa/Maryville Greenway. All levels welcomed.
Smoky Mountain Wheelmen Monthly Meeting: 6:30 p.m., Calhoun’s on Bearden Hill. Free. Info: Smoky Mountain Wheelmen. Monthly meetings are held on the third Monday of each month. We usually have a speaker for the meeting, so arrive early and show the speaker your support by attending.
Tuesday, Jan. 22
Tuesday B Group Ride: 10 a.m., Cycology Bicycles. Free. Info: Cycology Bicycles at 865-681-4183. B Group is a “No Drop” ride (15-18 mph) 35-45 miles. Must have general skills to ride roads with car traffic. If weather is questionable, call shop to confirm.
Tuesday A Group Ride: 10:30 a.m., Cycology Bicycles. Free. Info: Cycology Bicycles at 865-681-4183. A Group rides 40+ miles at 20+ average pace. This group is for advanced riders with good pace line skills. If weather is questionable, call shop to confirm.
Night Hike: 5:45 p.m., Fort Loudoun State Historic Park. Cost: $5. Info: Fort Loudoun State Historic Park at 423-420-2331. Join Ranger Baghetti on a rare night hike that will be lit by a bright moon. Enjoy the mountain and water reflections and identify nocturnal animals by sound. Bring water and a flashlight, preferably one equipped with a red light. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Intro to Climbing: 6 p.m., Onsight Rock Gym. Info: Onsight Rock Gym at 865-888-9123. Learn the basics of top rope belaying, knot tying and climbing technique in this hands-on class. Designed for those with no previous climbing experience, this course teaches the necessary skills required to climb independently.
Fly Tying 101: 6 p.m., 3 Rivers Angler. Cost: $25. Info: 3 Rivers Angler at 865-200-5271. We will cover everything from selection and use of tools to thread selection and the basic tying skills you will need to get started in this rewarding endeavor. All tools and materials are provided.
Monthly Bro Ride: 6 p.m. Baker Creek Preserve. Free. Info: Cedar Bluff Cycles at 865-692-1010. Join Allan Mueller for the men’s only Monthly Bro Ride. Pace will be casual, and riders will have the opportunity to try new trails/features and session sections. If you would like to get more comfortable with jumps and features, this is the ride for you. Bring headlights. We’ll be riding in the dark.
Monthly Flow & Glow Ride: 6 p.m. Baker Creek Preserve. Free. Info: Cedar Bluff Cycles at 865-692-1010. Join Trek Women’s Advocate Lisa Mueller for a fun evening riding the flow trails. Bring headlights. We’ll be riding in the dark. Pace will be casual, and riders will have the opportunity to try new trails and session sections.
Wednesday, Jan. 23
TVB Yoga for Cyclists: 7 a.m., Tennessee Valley Bikes. Cost: $10. Info: Tennessee Valley Bikes at 865-540-9979. Every Wednesday morning for 75 minutes. No subscription or membership required.
Birding with Friends: 8 a.m., Seven Islands State Birding Park. Free. Info: Seven Islands State Birding Park at 715-630-6848. Our birding guide will lead an early-morning birding hike, identifying by sight and sound some of the 200 species of birds spotted at the park. This event is part of a monthly birding series held on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Terrain is mostly level to rolling. Bring water, field guides and binoculars.
KTC Group Run: 5:30 p.m., Runners Market Bearden. Free. Info: Knoxville Track Club. Wednesday evening social-pace group run. All paces welcome. Distance options vary. Grab a beer with some good folks afterward.
Climbing Fundamentals: 6 p.m., River Sports Outfitters. Info: River Sports Outfitters at 865-523-0066. Come learn the basics of climbing every second and fourth Wednesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. Space is limited; call to reserve your spot.
Night Gravel Grinder Ride: 6:30 p.m., North Boundary Trails. Free. Info: Knoxville Bicycle Company at 865-240-3499. Very casual pace about 11 miles, just for fun. Night Gravel Grinder ride: Bring your Cross, Gravel or MTB. Two levels of riding “A” and “B.” Bring lights. Regroups as necessary.
Thursday, Jan. 24
GSMNP Work Day: Smokemont: 9 a.m., Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Free. Info: Friends of the Smokies. Work involves blowing leaves and removing debris from within the campground, and to address any fire rings and tent pads that need basic maintenance. Tools and safety gear will be provided by park staff. Contact Adam Monroe at 828-497-1949 or adam_monroe@nps.gov to register and receive more information.
Tuesday A & B Group Ride: 10 a.m., Cycology Bicycles. Free. Info: Cycology Bicycles at 865-681-4183. A Group ride is usually a 40+ miles at 20+ average pace. This group is for advanced riders with good pace line skills. B Group ride is a “No Drop” ride (15-18 mph) 35-45 miles. Must have general skills to ride roads with car traffic. If weather is questionable, call shop to confirm.
East Tennessee Fishing Show & Expo: 2-8 p.m. Knoxville Expo Center. Free. Info: East Tennessee Fishing Show. We bring together the largest selection of tackle, custom lures, rods, reels, apparel, electronics, accessories and everything a fisherman or outdoorsman needs. First Responders Day.
North Knox Beer Runners: 6 p.m., Central Flats and Taps. Free. Info: North Knox Beer Runners. Fun and easy run through North Knox and Happy Holler. Don’t forget lights and reflective gear.
Fleet Feet Sports Open Group Run/Walk: 6 p.m., Fleet Feet Sports. Free. Info: Fleet Feet Sports at 865-675-3338. Our 30- to 60-minute route varies week by week in the various neighborhoods and greenways around the store. All levels welcome.
Fly Tying 101: 6 p.m., 3 Rivers Angler. Cost: $25. Info: 3 Rivers Angler at 865-200-5271. We will cover everything from selection and use of tools to thread selection, and the basic tying skills you will need to get started in this rewarding endeavor. All tools and materials are provided.
Care and Feeding of Your Mountain Bike: 6:30 p.m., Cycology Bicycles. Free. Info: Cycology Bicycles at 865-681-4183. Learn about the systems on your mountain bike, including tires, wheels, hydraulic brakes, drivetrain options, suspension and dropper seat posts. Learn about what kind of upkeep/maintenance is required, what kinds of adjustments are possible and what accessories and upgrades are available for the different brands and systems out there. Also see our MTB Suspension and Tubeless Systems clinics. Information session, 60 minutes.
Friday, Jan. 25
Wilderness Emergency Medical Responder Refresher – Jan. 25-27: 8 a.m., Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. Cost: $455. Info: Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont at 865-448-6709. If you have taken Wilderness Emergency Medical Responder in the past and are due for a renewal, this program will satisfy the requirements to renew certification. This is an excellent review of wilderness medical information and skills. Lodging and meals included. Register online.
Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program (SANCP) – Jan. 25-27: 8 a.m., Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. Cost: $356. Info: Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont at 865-448-6709. Come learn and practice skills that will connect you to nature. We will take inspiration and tips from the rich history of naturalist-explorers, learn to use a journal as a place to capture observations and grow, and share the wonder and joy with each other as we probe the secrets of the world around us. Register online.
East Tennessee Fishing Show & Expo – Jan. 24-27: 10-8 p.m. Knoxville Expo Center. Free. Info: East Tennessee Fishing Show. We bring together the largest selection of tackle, custom lures, rods, reels, apparel, electronics, accessories and everything a fisherman or outdoorsman needs. Lady Anglers Day.
Intro and Basics of Framing Photographs: 1 p.m., Frozen Head State Park at Panther Branch Trailhead. Cost: $5. Info: Frozen Head State Park at 423-346-3318. Join Ranger Brady for a brief introduction and overview of framing your photographs and then a hike to Debord Falls to practice what we learned. Bring your camera or cellphone.
Friday Fun Run: 6:30 p.m., Pour Taproom. Free. 865 Running. Run 3 miles downtown, World’s Fair Park and river walk; then drinks with 10 percent off. All levels welcome.
Saturday, Jan. 26
CHKM Group Run: 8 a.m. New Balance. Free. Info: Covenant Health at 865-684-4294. Join our group runs in prep for race day on Sunday, March 31, 2019.
Winter Woody Plant ID: 8:30 a.m., Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. Cost: $64. Info: Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont at 865-448-6709. Do you know what to look for to identify trees and shrubs in the wintertime? Discover a number of leafless characteristics that will help you do so. This program is perfect for naturalist certification graduates as well as those who are interested in further developing their naturalist skills. Includes lunch and breakfast. Register online.
Bike Zoo Saturday Ride: 9 a.m., Bike Zoo. Free. Info: Bike Zoo at 865-558-8455. 3-hour ride of 50+ miles at a fast pace of 18-20 mph. Weather permitting.
AMBC Trail Building Work Day: 9-12 p.m. Sharp’s Ridge Veterans Memorial Park. Free. Info: Appalachian Mountain Bike Club. Come help us build trails. Bring your gloves, water and eye protection. We’ll provide tools and lunch.
Riverbank Clean-up: 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Seven Islands Landing (boat launch). Free. Info: Seven Islands State Birding Park at 715-630-6848. We need your help removing trash and harmful invasive species along the Seven Islands Landing riverbank. Volunteers will be using hand tools and herbicide, so please bring sturdy clothes including long-sleeved shirts, work gloves and closed-toe shoes. We also suggest water and a snack. No previous experience is required. Sign up online.
Fly Fishing 101: 9 a.m., 3 Rivers Angler. Free. Info: 3 Rivers Angler at 865-200-5271. Each class teaches the basics of rigging, casting and other intro-to-fly-fishing skills. All of the gear and instruction is provided free of charge. Space is limited so please make sure to sign up well in advance.
Healthy Hike: Slave Falls Loop: 10 a.m., Big South Fork NRRA at the Sawmill Trailhead. Free. Info: Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area at 423-286-7275. Join a park ranger on a 3.2-mile guided hike to one of the park’s most interesting geological areas. Slave Falls Loop trail offers views of rock shelters, arches and waterfalls, including the 70-foot-tall Slave Falls.
Cold Weather Walk and Survival Tips: 10 a.m., Cove Lake State Park. Cost: $3. Info: Cove Lake State Park at 423-566-9701. Join us on a moderate hike through the Woods loop and Goose Island trail and talk about cold weather survival. Dress appropriately for cold weather. Approximately 2.5 miles round trip. Ages 6 and older. Meet at the Recreation Building. Register online.
East Tennessee Fishing Show & Expo: 10-8 p.m. Knoxville Expo Center. Free. Info: East Tennessee Fishing Show. We bring together the largest selection of tackle, custom lures, rods, reels, apparel, electronics, accessories and everything a fisherman or outdoorsman needs. Child Anglers Day.
Resolution Ride: 10 a.m., Cycology Bicycles. Free. Info: Cycology Bicycles at 865-681-4183. Join us for our third annual Resolution Ride, a free social-paced ride of 15- or 35 miles over gently rolling terrain.
Knox Forest School’s Open House: 11 a.m., Knox Forest School. Info: Knox Forest School. Would you like your child to spend their days playing and learning in the forest? Then come to our open house to learn more about Knox Forest School. Enrollment opens Feb. 1, and spaces are limited. Please come dressed in appropriate clothing for the woods. We will host our event rain or shine. Please private message the host for the school address.
Sunday, Jan. 27
Wonderful World of Watercolors: 10 a.m., Frozen Head State Park. Cost: $5. Info: Frozen Head State Park at 423-346-3318. Learn the basic techniques in creating a watercolor masterpiece. Join Ranger Kempton to create a still life of some of Frozen Head’s more stoic, unique and natural artifacts. We will meet at the Visitor’s Center. All materials will be provided. Register online.
East Tennessee Fishing Show & Expo: 10-5 p.m. Knoxville Expo Center. Free. Info: East Tennessee Fishing Show. We bring together the largest selection of tackle, custom lures, rods, reels, apparel, electronics, accessories and everything a fisherman or outdoorsman needs. Boat Giveaway Day.
Intro to Climbing: 1 p.m., Onsight Rock Gym. Info: Onsight Rock Gym at 865-888-9123. Learn the basics of top rope belaying, knot tying and climbing technique in this hands-on class. Designed for those with no previous climbing experience, this course teaches the necessary skills required to climb independently.
Yoga for Climbers: 7 p.m., River Sports Outfitters. Cost: $8. Info: River Sports Outfitters at 865-523-0066. Join us for yoga every Sunday. Participants will receive a 20 percent off PrAna & Lole card.
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