A new path is opening at Zoo Knoxville this summer, and it comes with stories to tell.
For the first time ever, the Boyd Foundation Boardwalk at Clayton Timber Loop will be open to daytime guests, giving visitors the chance to explore this wooded area during regular zoo hours and discover a brand-new live animal encounter called Tales from the Trail.
Opening Memorial Day weekend, Tales from the Trail invites guests to slow down, listen closely, and uncover the stories hidden within nature. Inspired by Appalachian storytelling, wildlife folklore, and the natural beauty of East Tennessee, this immersive experience features rotating ambassador animal presentations featuring species such as owls, snakes, raccoons, armadillos, skunks, birds, and more.
Programs will take place from Thursday through Sunday at 11 a.m. and will feature two to three ambassador animals during each 15-20 minute presentation. Because the animal lineup rotates regularly, every visit offers the chance to discover something different along the trail.
Set within the newly accessible Boyd Foundation Boardwalk at Clayton Timber Loop, Tales from the Trail blends live animal encounters with folklore, conservation, and storytelling inspired by the Great Smoky Mountains. Guests will learn how people once interpreted the natural world through observation, listening, and stories passed down through generations.
The experience also highlights the zoo’s commitment to animal well-being, conservation, and positive-reinforcement training, while encouraging guests to connect with the wildlife found right in their own backyards.
Best of all, access to the Boyd Foundation Boardwalk at Clayton Timber Loop and Tales from the Trail is included with general zoo admission.
Every animal has a story, and every trail leaves clues behind.
Zoo Knoxville’s mission is to deliver dynamic guest experiences while inspiring action to save wildlife and wild places. For more information on Zoo Knoxville’s commitment to wildlife conservation, events, membership, and planning your visit, go here.
Located at 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr.,37914, Zoo Knoxville is open every day 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Follow Zoo Knoxville on Facebook, Instagram, X.
Follow KnoxTNToday on Facebook and Instagram. Get all KnoxTNToday articles in one place with our Free Newsletter.
