OUTDOORS

Outdoor Knoxville Event Calendar, April 28-May 7

Knoxville News Sentinel

 

Take the kids to the main branch of Nashville Public Library (615 Church St.) on Friday and Saturday to experience the Wishing Chair Production of "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County."

FRIDAY

VOLUNTEER TRAIL MAINTENANCE

Frozen Head State Park at 423-201-2953

9:30 am at Frozen Head State Park

Join Ranger Joe and help with trail work on Lookout Tower Trail. Please dress ready for manual labor and bring a daypack with water and lunch. We will be clearing ditch lines and culverts using fire-rakes, and other hand tools. We should be out of the woods by 3:30pm. Email joseph.nowotarski@tn.gov for details and to reserve a spot. Meet at the Park Visitor Center.

FAMILY WILDLIFE SERIES: AMPHIBIAN NIGHT HIKE

Ijams Nature Center at 865-577-4717, ext. 110 to register

7:00 pm at Ijams Nature Center

(Ages 6 and up) Spring is here and we are hearing the sounds of the nocturnal chorus! Join us as we explore the creeks and ponds around Ijams Nature Center in search of these seasonal singers. The fee for this program is $5 for Ijams members and $8 for non-members. Pre-registration is required.

SATURDAY

BIRDING WALK AT BIG SOUTH FORK

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area at 423-286-7275

8:00 am at Big South Fork NRRA

In celebration of the 17th Annual Spring Planting & Music Festival, the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area announces a birding walk with Dr. Charles P. Nicholson. Participants will meet at the Bandy Creek Swimming Pool parking lot at 8 am. Dr. Nicholson has over 35 years of birding experience on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee, including the Big South Fork area. He is an active member of the Tennessee Ornithological Society and has served as president and editor of its journal. Chuck studied birds for his PhD in ecology and evolutionary biology and is the author of the Atlas of Breeding Birds of Tennessee, the comprehensive source book on the distribution and biology of the birds nesting in this state. He has also taught a course in bird-watching in the University of Tennessee non-credit program for several years and led numerous birding field trips.

DOGWOOD CLASSIC 5K RUN/WALK

Knoxville Track Club

8:00 am at Sequoyah Park

Runners and walkers! Join us for the Dogwood Classic on Saturday at 8:00 am on Cherokee Boulevard (middle lot - 1600 Cherokee Boulevard).

PRC SUPERHERO LIFE RUN - 5K & FAMILY FUN WALK

Pregnancy Resource Center

8:00 am at Sandy Springs Park

The Pregnancy Resource Center of Maryville, TN is having our 4th 5k and family fun walk! By participating in this Superhero family fun event enables us to continue to offer services at no cost to our clients! Reaching our event goal will retire our building note and re-direct those funds serving our community. How amazing to be a part of that! That is only 125 runner or walkers reaching the goal of raising $200. How fun! Dressing as your favorite Superhero is optional, but FUN. The Captain of the team or individual that PRE-Registers will receive a goody bag! (One per family)

RIDE THE PLAINS

Race Day Events

8:30 am at Rush Strong Elementary School

The 8th annual Ride the Plains is a scenic road tour of Jefferson Co, offering first-timer friendly 15-mile ride along with 31, 50, 62, and 75 mile fully supported ride options, all starting from Rush Strong School in Strawberry Plains. Super light traffic and beautiful scenery highlight this rolling trek through "the Plains". All skill level cyclists are welcome—like all Race Day Events rides, RTP is NOT A RACE! Soft cotton shirts to the first 300 registrants, with post ride Buddy's BBQ again the reward at the finish. Great rest stop support provided by the faculty of Rush Strong School, with proceeds going to that organization.

WILDFLOWER PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

Cumberland Mountain State Park at 931-484-6138

9:00 am at Cumberland Mountain State Park

Come enjoy the many wildflowers of the Cumberland Plateau! Join Ranger Johnson and Photographer Anthony Ladd as they take you on a fantastical journey through the forest of Cumberland Mountain State Park in search of that perfect wildflower photo and other picturesque vistas! Workshop will include photography tips, innovative ways of capturing dramatic images of wildflowers, wildflower identification,

and hike. To sign up call Cumberland Mountain State Park at 931-484-6138 or go to http://cmspfriends.com/www/wild-flower-photography/  Meet at the Museum beside Restaurant

WALKING TOUR OF ELKMONT

Great Smoky Mountains Association at 865-436-7318 x222

9:00 am at Elkmont Upper Parking Lot - GSMNP

Take a historic walk through the Elkmont community with Steve Ellis, owner of Hike the Smokies, as your guide. He'll recount the turn-of-the century hardships of the logging industry, including a tragic wreck, as logging interests harvested magnificent trees in the area and forever changed its landscape. Steve will also cover the establishment of the two resorts: the Appalachian and Wonderland Clubs. Participants will enjoy his vivid descriptions of the celebration, gaiety, and fanfare of Elkmont residents, most of whom ventured from Knoxville in search of cool mountain air and natural surroundings. This walking tour will be conducted on mostly paved roads and gravel trails; however, autos will be used to access some places of interest. Participants should plan to bring water, bug spray, good walking shoes, a snack, and your imagination. Trekking poles are not necessary but could be helpful on some terrain. Meet at the Elmont Ranger Station Kiosk. Pre-registration required, fees may apply, follow this link to learn more: http://www.smokiesinformation.org/info/branch-out-programs

SMOKY MOUNTAIN BIKE RODEO

Smoky Mountain Wellness at 865-803-8887

9:00 am at Maryville Farmers Market - Founders Square

The free workshop will provide children ages 7 to 9 with an introduction to bicycle safety, including rules of the road, bike and maintenance, and bicycle skills. Free helmets are available for children who do not have one. Participation will take about one hour, and appointments are available with preregistration.

DOGWOOD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP REGATTA - APRIL 29-30

Oak Ridge Rowing Association at 865-482-6538

9:00 am at Melton Hill Lake Rowing Center

The Dogwood Junior Championship Regatta is a juniors-only regatta with approximately 2,000 athletes competing in two days filled with competitive racing. With heats and finals filling the weekend, spectators will have the opportunity to catch multiple races from the peninsula and enjoy a meal and shopping from our attending vendors.

EAST KNOXVILLE COMMUNITY CLEANUP

Keep Knoxville Beautiful at 865-521-6957

9:00 am at Eternal Life Harvest Center Plaza

The event will kick off at Eternal Life Harvest Center Plaza where participants will gather supplies then disperse into their own communities to pick up litter. Snacks and beverages will be available, as will the use of litter-pickers, gloves, garbage bags and safety vests - free for all participants. Volunteers will reconvene at Eternal Life Harvest Center Plaza for a FREE lunch from 12 pm – 1 pm. Registration is FREE and open to all ages!

17TH ANNUAL SPRING PLANTING AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area at 423-286-7275

9-4:30 pm at Big South Fork NRRA

The 17th Annual Spring Planting & Music Festival at Big South Fork NRRA has something for everyone. Events include all day live music from some of the region's best talent, demonstrations of forgotten skills

such as blacksmithing, woodcarving and soap making, plowing and planting with mule and horse teams, gardening, guided wildflower and bird watching walks, 3 different trail runs, hands on play with old timey toys and a host of other activities too numerous to mention.

POWELL RIVER KAYAK & CANOE REGATTA

Claiborne County Tourism Commission at 423-626-9000

9:30 am at Seven Islands State Birding Park

A 12-mile paddle on the scenic Class 1 Powell River in the Cumberland hills of NE Tennessee. Nine race categories and one recreational category. Kayaks, canoes & paddleboards. Entry Fee: $30 for singles; $50 per boat for doubles; Cash prizes: $150 for 1st place & $50 for 2nd place for each race category.

CHEROKEE CHALLENGE RUN

Long View Ranch at 423-636-0032

10:00 am at Long View Ranch, Mosheim, TN

OBSTACLES, MUD, SWEAT, TEAMWORK, AND FUN. Grab a team of four and run this rugged 5k Obstacle Run, all while helping send kids to summer camp. Come RUN THE CHEROKEE CHALLENGE, hosted by Long View Ranch near Greeneville, TN and make a difference.

OSCAR BLEVINS TRAIL RUNS AT BIG SOUTH FORK NRRA

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area at 423-286-7275

10:00 am at Big South Fork NRRA

Big South Fork NRRA is partnering with the Knoxville Track Club to hold three trail runs on the scenic Oscar Blevins Nature Trail during the 17th Annual Spring Planting and Music Festival. The three-run program includes a one mile kids’ fun-run beginning at 9 am; then at 10 am, there will be a 4-mile run and a 7-mile run. After the run, participants are encouraged to enjoy a wide array of activities at the park's annual festival celebrating Appalachian life and music.

HIKE WILLIAM HASTIE NATURAL AREA

Lake Forest Neighborhood Association

10:00 am at William Hastie Natural Area

Join us the month of April for our Saturday guided hikes through William Hastie Natural Area. This park is well known for its wildflowers and because it offers so many views and elevations you feel like you are in the Smokies even though you are only 3 miles from downtown. Meet at 10 am at the Margaret Road gravel parking lot. This will be a 4 Mile Fitness Hike! Bring a water bottle and camera! Event is Free!

BIKE WITH A RANGER ON THE NORTH BOUNDARY GREENWAY

Manhattan Project National Historical Park at 865-576-6767

10:00 am at North Boundary Greenway

Join a park ranger for a bike ride on the North Boundary Greenway to see how the former communities of the area have changed over the past 70 years. The ride will begin at the Turnpike Gatehouse and travel down Quarry Trail. Along the ride, we will explore the former communities that were here before the Manhattan Project. Rangers will stop several times along the bike ride to point out the rich history that is found within the Oak Ridge area. The Turnpike Gatehouse is located at 2900 Oak Ridge Turnpike. Riders under 16 years of age must wear a helmet and child passengers under 40 pounds or 40 inches must be seated and secured in a child restraining seat or bicycle trailer. For your safety, visitors are encouraged to bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate footwear.

LOST ROAD TRAIL HIKE

Panther Creek State Park at 423-587-7046

11:00 am at Panther Creek State Park

Join the Ranger for a hike along the Lost Road Trail. Hikers will be rewarded with breath taking views, spring colors, and exhilaration. Be sure to lace of the boots and bring a camera! Meet at the Spoone Shelter Parking Lot

BIG SOUTH FORK WILDFLOWER HIKE

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area at 423-286-7275

11:00 am at Big South Fork NRRA

In celebration of the 17th Annual Spring Planting and Music Festival, join a park ranger for a ranger-led hike while learning about Big South Fork's local wildflowers, plant communities, and forest ecology. The up to two-hour hike starts promptly at 11:00 am on Saturday at the gazebo near Leatherwood Ford. Visitors are encouraged to come and enjoy a hike to learn more about local wildflowers in bloom and special features of riverside plant communities. The park is home to a vast array of stunning wildflowers, and this hike along the banks of the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River will feature some of the park's finest river scenery. This hike is free of charge. The trail is easy to moderate. Please wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable hiking footwear. Everyone is welcome.

BIKES & BLOOMS NORTHBOUND RIDE

Dogwood Arts Bikes & Bloom and Legacy Parks Foundation at 865-525-2585

2:00 pm at the Outdoor Knoxville Adventure Center

Discover new routes on this family friendly bike ride through scenic neighborhoods. Ride is approximately eight miles long and geared to help you learn how to do your own road rides. Riders must wear helmets and have a basic understanding of on-road riding. Riders should wear comfortable clothing and bring any water or snacks you might need. No pre-registration is required.

Bikes & Blooms Northbound will be led by Jim Richards of the Knoxville Botanical Garden. You will pass vibrant displays of dogwood trees and gardens as you depart from the Outdoor Knoxville Adventure Center and head through 4th and Gill, Old North, and other historic neighborhoods in North Knoxville. After a stop for a drink at Three Rivers Market, you will return to downtown. Please arrive a few minutes before 2:00pm so that rides begin on time.

SUNDAY

HAMMER SPRINT TRIATHLON & DUATHLON

Endurance Sports Management at 865-988-3906

8:00 am at Tellico Lake Boat Ramp

Hammer Sprint Triathlon & Duathlon adds an Olympic distance triathlon for 2017 benefiting the Humane Society of Loudon County in memory of a special dog named "HAMMER". These early season USAT sanctioned events are in there 17th year in 2017. Come out for a great cause and test your off-season work! TVA Tellico Recreation area is our host for these great early season events. Race walk through Saturday at 6 PM at race site. Arrive at site race day Sunday no later than 7 AM EST for ample time for parking, packet pickup and getting ready for event starting promptly at 8 AM EST. Choose either a 400 meter or 1.5K swim in the triathlons or 5K run in the duathlon. Each event is followed by a 16 mile or 40K bike and 5 K or 10K run. Triathlon - Swim in the cool, clear Tellico Lake. Water is expected to be wetsuit legal. Same bike and run courses are used in Triathlon and duathlon. Duathlon: Both run courses use the

TVA Tellico Recreation roads and paths for the 5K runs. Aid stations featuring products from Hammer Nutrition will be passed each mile of this rolling course.

DOGWOOD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP REGATTA - APRIL 29-30

Oak Ridge Rowing Association at 865-482-6538

9:00 am at Melton Hill Lake Rowing Center

The Dogwood Junior Championship Regatta is a juniors-only regatta with approximately 2,000 athletes competing in two days filled with competitive racing. With heats and finals filling the weekend, spectators will have the opportunity to catch multiple races from the peninsula and enjoy a meal and shopping from our attending vendors.

BIKES & BLOOMS SOUTHBOUND RIDE

Dogwood Arts Bikes & Bloom and Legacy Parks Foundation at 865-525-2585

2:00 pm at Suttree Landing Park

Discover new routes on this family friendly bike ride through scenic neighborhoods and on local greenways. Ride is approximately eight miles long and geared to help you learn how to do your own road rides. Riders must wear helmets and have a basic understanding of on-road riding. Riders should wear comfortable clothing and bring any water or snacks you might need. No pre-registration is required.

Bikes & Blooms Southbound will be led by Jim Richards of the Knoxville Botanical Garden. Leaving from Suttree Landing Park, you will see the beauty of South Knoxville from the seat of your bicycle. Riders will enjoy views of the Tennessee River, the colorful gardens along Island Home Boulevard, and the forested greenway path to Ijams Nature Center before returning to the park. Please arrive a few minutes before 2:00 pm so that rides begin on time.

TURKEY CREEK CLEANUP

Dogwood Arts Bikes & Bloom and Legacy Parks Foundation at 865-525-2585

2-5 pm at Lovell Rd and Parkside Dr

It's time for another clean up! Knox County is having another cleanup at Turkey Creek, specifically the wetlands at the intersection of Lovell Rd and Parkside Dr. We will be removing invasive plants and picking up litter! Please join us on April 30 from 2-5 pm to help clean it up! We will provide litter pickers, gloves, trash bags, high visibility vests, traffic signs, cones, and have staff directing traffic for the safety of our volunteers. Sign up at https://goo.gl/forms/ilJ5q4szRzFm5w6O2.

MAY 1

SOUTH LOOP SUMMER SESSIONS - WOMEN'S MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDES

Liv Cycling and Harpers Bike Shop at 865-588-5744

7:00 pm at Sweet P's BBQ and Downtown Dive

If you've never mountain biked before or consider yourself still a beginner — join us for our South Loop Summer Sessions with Liv Cycling and Harper's Bike Shop! Rides will break the 13-mile South Loop into shorter out and back sessions. Rides are held on Monday evenings in May and into June, then on July 8th we'll ride the entire loop. There are optional skills clinics before each ride and free bike checks by Harper's Bike Shop! Clinics: Arrive at 5:30 pm — Rides: Arrive at 6:00 pm

Session 1 - May 1st - Park at Mead's Quarry to ride Quarry Trails and Forks of the River

SOUTHERN CYCLING OPERATIONS MONTHLY MEETING

SCO and Bike Zoo at 865-558-8455

7:00 pm at the Bike Zoo

Southern Cycling Operations is a Bike Zoo sponsored cycling club focused on all levels of bicycle racing and supporting local and national cycling advocacy. Please join us, at the Bike Zoo, on the 1st Monday of each month at 7pm for our monthly meeting.

LADIES NIGHT AT THE CLIMBING CENTER

River Sports Outfitters at 865-523-0066

7-10 pm at River Sports Outfitters

Join us from 7 – 10 pm on the First Monday of each month for Ladies Night! Come enjoy a fun night at the gym! It's only $12 for a pass and gear rental!

MAY 2

GUIDED HIKE - SUGARLANDS TO ROCK HOUSE

Little River Trading Co at 865-681-4141

9:00 am at Little River Trading Company

Join us for a 5.5 mile hike, rated moderate. Features include: Quarry used by the state of Tennessee to build the first paved roads over the mountains, rock walls of old homeplaces, site of the Sky-u-ka Lodge, CCC ruins, Old Sugarlands Cemetery, water crossings, and the Rock House (Stone House). Bring: Water, lunch, snacks, extra socks, Trekking poles RECOMMENDED! RSVP Required: email Dolphin Riggs at dolphin@littlerivertradingco.com

CHILDREN'S PROGRAM: LITTLE TYKES HIKE

Ijams Nature Center at 865-577-4717, ext. 110 to register

10:00 am at Ijams Nature Center

(Recommended for children under 6) Little Tykes Hikes are perfect for little ones that love to explore, find, play and learn. We'll head out to the trails to look under, over, and into secret places along the trails. Join us as we look for all the fun things that live, grow, and call Ijams home! You won't want to miss out. This program is FREE, but pre-registration is required. Please call to register.

RSO PINT NIGHT - IJAMS NATURE CENTER

River Sports Outfitters at 865-523-0066

6-9 pm at River Sports Outfitters

Join us for Pint Night - benefiting Ijams Nature Center sponsored by Mountain Khaki. Join us at 6pm the first Tuesday of every month to help raise money for all the great charities we're partnering with and support all of our wonderful sponsors, all while having a great time! For the 2016 Pint Night season, the first 200 folks will get a custom pint glass for a $5 donation. Your $5 also includes the first fill-up of your custom glass PLUS a ticket for a refill. Extra refills and all first fills after the first 200 will be a $5 donation. We're excited about raising money for our charities with you! A food Truck will be on hand to keep your hunger at bay and live music will be provided!

MAY 3

HIKE ACE GAP TO BEARD CANE TRAIL

Smoky Mountain Hiking Club

8:00 am at Alcoa Food City

We will hike the Ace Gap trail to the Beard Cane trail and return. Hike: 11 miles RT. We may encounter some blowdowns. Meet at Alcoa Food City at 8:00 am. Leader: David Grab at digrab@aol.com

FLY FISHING 101

3 Rivers Angler at 865-200-5271

5:00 pm at 3 Rivers Angler

3 Rivers Angler is offering "fly fishing 101″ lessons on fly casting and outfit rigging at absolutely no charge. Each class teaches the basics of rigging, casting and other intro to fly fishing skills. All the gear and instruction is provided free of charge. Space is limited so please make sure to sign up well in advance. Classes typically run from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturdays. Call 3 Rivers Angler for more information or send an email to info@3riversangler.com  Bring a fly rod and reel with line if you have one, (if not, one can be provided in the beginning.) We'll be covering "what to buy" during the 1st class session so it is something that we can work around if you do not have one to start. Bring a notebook and pen to take notes. All graduates receive 15% off their first purchase! Course space is limited to 6 students

2017 KNOX MTB RACE WEDNESDAY SERIES

Knox Bike Racing

6:15 pm at Concord Park

Races Are Wednesday evenings and start at 6:15 pm. The series runs from April through July and consists of 10 races using 6 courses in the Knoxville area. These are cross country mountain bike races and categories are spaced with 1 minute between the next. This is NOT a USAC sanctioned series so no licenses are needed. Fees and registration info online at https://knoxbikeracing.com/wednesday-series/

KTOS MONTHLY MEETING – “A TRIP REPORT OF OUR RECENT TRIP TO CUBA” BY RON HOFF

Knoxville Chapter TN Ornithological Society

6:45 pm at UT Veterinary Medicine Building Room 118

Ron Hoff and several KTOS members are planning a March 2017 trip to Cuba. Assuming all goes well, back in Knoxville, KTOS members will be able to see their slides and hear their stories when all the awe and excitement is still fresh. Expect some great bird photography. Meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month at 6:45 pm. in Room 118 of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. All visitors are welcome, whether local or out-of-town guests! Each meeting consists of a short business meeting, sharing of bird sightings, and a speaker. Refreshments and socializing also precede and follow each meeting.

MAY 4

SHARP'S RIDGE EARLY MORNING BIRDING WALK

Knoxville Chapter TN Ornithological Society

8:00 am at Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park

Join us on Thursday mornings for our weekday bird walks! These will be held along the road in Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park. Spring migrants will be the focus, with orioles, grosbeaks, warblers, and others expected. If you are new to birding or to KTOS field trips, this is a great way to get started. It is also a great way to brush up on your spring warbler songs if you are more experienced. Meet at the ranger's house. Leader: Tony Headrick at 865-621-9836.

KOWS SEASON OPENER AND POST-SWIM SOCIAL

Knoxville Open Water Swimmers

5:30 pm at Billy Lush Board Shop

Join us from 5:30 - 6:30 pm for an Open Swim and then afterwards at 6:30 pm for a KOWS social at BIlly Lush Board Shop (located next to Outdoor Knoxville). This is the perfect time for anyone interested in open water swimming or paddleboard/kayak piloting to check us out. The bar will be open!

MAY 5

MOUNTAIN LAUREL HEALTHY HIKE WITH MISSY KANE

Cumberland Trail State Park at 423-566-2229

10:00 am at the Obed Wild & Scenic River

Enjoy a moderately difficult 2.5-mile round-trip hike along the Emory Gorge Section of the Cumberland Trail. Meet at the Nemo Bridge parking lot at Obed Wild & Scenic River. Bring water, snacks and dress for the weather with appropriate footwear.

THE FRIDAY NIGHT 5K RUN/WALK

American Cancer Society & Relay For Life

8:00 pm at Maryville College

Come join the fun and excitement of the Blount County Friday Night 5K Run & Walk! This timed race will start and end at Maryville College with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society & their continual fight against cancer.

ANDERSON COUNTY TWILIGHT 5K RUN & WALK

American Cancer Society & Relay For Life

8:15 pm at Melton Lake Park

Come join the fun and excitement of the Anderson County Twilight 5K Run & Walk! This timed race will start and end at Melton Lake Park with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society & their continual fight against cancer. Sign-in for this race will begin at 6:45 pm on Friday with the race starting at 8:15 pm. The event will be held in conjunction with the Annual Relay For Life of Anderson County Celebration that will start at 5 pm earlier in the evening at Melton Lake Park. We highly encourage participants to come early and enjoy in all activities the night entails including Live Entertainment.

OWL PROWL

Obed Wild & Scenic River at 423-346-6294

8:30 pm at Obed Wild & Scenic River

The Obed Wild and Scenic River will be having a spring ranger-led Owl Prowl program on Friday evening. The program will begin at 8:30 pm at the Lilly Bluff Overlook parking lot, which is located just off Ridge Road in Morgan County. Participants will get a chance to learn about the habits and mannerisms of the Eastern Screech Owl and the Barred Owl. We will walk a short distance along the Lilly Bluff Overlook Trail while we use recorded owl calls to try to attract these birds of prey. Participants are asked to bring flashlights and wear sturdy shoes. Reservations are not required for this free event which should conclude by 9:30 pm.

MAY 6

APPALACHIAN TRAIL MAINTENANCE

Smoky Mountain Hiking Club

8:00 am at Comcast Parking Area

We will start at Davenport Gap and work up toward the Mount Cammerer side trail. We plan to clean water-bars, trim vegetation, remove smaller blow-downs, perform light trail maintenance, and inspect the

shelters. A moderate hike of 6 to 8 miles is required depending on the interest level. Meet at Comcast, 5720 Asheville Hwy, at 8:00 am for carpooling to Davenport Gap. Please pre-register with the leaders to assist planning. Leaders: Tim Bigelow at bigelowt2@mindspring.com and Steve Dunkin at  jsdinkin@roaneschools.com

HIKE 101 HEMPHILL BALD/CALDWELL FORK/ROUGH CREEK

Great Smoky Mountains Association at 865-436-7318 x222

8:00 am at Parking area on Heintooga Ridge Rd/Polls Gap

View Maggie Valley from Hemphill Bald, listen to the waters that run along Caldwell and Rough Fork trails.

Distance: 13.6 miles Rating: Moderate to strenuous

Meeting Place: Parking area on Heintooga Ridge Rd/Polls Gap. From Blue Ridge Parkway South, turn left at Balsam Mountain Road. Follow signs toward Balsam Mountain Campground and park at Polls Gap on right.

Hike Leader: GSMA Member Lloyd Shiver

What to Bring: You are strongly advised to bring appropriate gear, including day pack, water, food, clothing for all types of weather, and sturdy hiking boots; hiking poles are optional, but come in handy.

Pre-registration required, fees may apply, follow this link to learn more: http://www.smokiesinformation.org/info/branch-out-programs

L.E.A.P. 5K AND KID'S MILE

Whirlpool Whirlwinds Running Club

8:00 am at Volunteer Landing

Join us on May 6th for the L.E.A.P. 5k and Kid's Mile on Neyland Drive! We will have great door prizes and awards. This is a family friendly event; runners and walkers are welcome! Join us for the free post-race vendor expo! Race proceeds will benefit the Knoxville Ladies of Charity and their community emergency assistance programs as they celebrate their 75th anniversary helping Knoxville! This is a family friendly event; runners and walkers are welcome! The Kid's Mile will begin at 8:00 am and the 5k will begin at 8:30 am. Awards ceremony will be held at approximately 9:15 am. A post-race vendor expo will be held from 8:30 – 11:00 am at Volunteer Landing. Participants will begin on Neyland Drive near Calhoun's on the River and head west towards the UT Agriculture Campus. They will then turn around and return to the finish line.

HIKE VIRGIN FALLS

Little River Trading Co at 865-681-4141

9:00 am at Virgin Falls State Natural Area

Join Little River Trading Co Saturday May 6th 10:00 AM (Eastern), 9:00 AM Central for a guided hike at Virgin Falls. Difficulty level is intermediate to strenuous due to rock scrambling and roots. We will meet at the Virgin Falls parking lot. Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch. Trekking poles are strongly recommended. Don't forget to dress in layers, bring extra socks, and a headlamp. RSVP required to Trip Leader Dolphin Riggs, dolphin@littlerivertradingco.com. For more information call the shop.

Length: 9 miles (or somewhat less) Rated: Intermediate + rocks and roots elevates the difficulty of this hike to strenuous Bring: Plenty of water, snacks and lunch. Trekking poles Clothing: Multi-layer clothing, extra socks, headlamp

Description: The trail meanders down to the Big Branch of the Big Laurel Creek through an upland oak-hickory/chestnut oak hardwood forest crisscrossing a fern dominated upland drainage. Upon descending into the gorge the vegetation changes to hemlock and mixed mesophytic forest which includes maples, oaks, tulip poplar, hickory, buckeye, basswood, cherry, yellow birch, sycamore and many more species. Mountain laurel, magnolia and several ericaceous shrubs are common along the trail. The trails pass by small rock houses, boulder fields, sinks, caves, and waterfalls on route to Virgin Falls where the trail ends.

WOMEN'S BIKE MAINTENANCE BASICS

REI at 865-584-1938

9:00 am at REI Knoxville

Join us for a women's introductory bike maintenance class. This class is an informative presentation that will familiarize you with different parts of a bike while showing you how to lube a chain, fix a flat tire, and manage other minor adjustments to keep your bike running smoothly and out of the shop. Class is free but registration is required.

RUNNERS MARKET SATURDAY GROUP RUN

Runner's Market at 865-588-1650

9:00 am at Runners Market Bearden

Every first Saturday of the month at 9:00 am, join us for a relaxed-pace run of 3 to 5.5 miles or beyond along the Third Creek and Sequoyah Hills Greenways. Afterwards, enjoy coffee and refreshments provided by the gang at Runners Market.

FLY TYING CLASS

3 Rivers Angler at 865-200-5271

9:00 am at 3 Rivers Angler

Fly Tying 101: Intro to Tools, Techniques and Terminology. We will cover everything from selection and use of tools, thread selection, and the basic tying skills you will need to get started in this rewarding endeavor. The class cost is $25.00 and will be limited to 6 students (minimum of 2).  All tools and materials are provided. The class cost is $25.00 and will be limited to 6 students (minimum of 2). For questions or to reserve your spot in a class please call the shop or email info@3riversangler.com

WORLD VISION TEAM KNOXVILLE 6K FOR WATER

World Vision at 865-803-3715

9:00 am at Tommy Schumpert Park

Join us and advocates across the globe in our mission to bring clean water and fullness of life to children in communities around the world. Walk, run, or push a stroller with us at the World Vision Global 6K for Water on May 6th, 2017. Each registration provides lasting clean water to a child and on race day, you walk/run with that child's picture on your race bib.

GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K CELEBRATION

Girls on the Run

10:00 am at West High School

Anyone who has been to a Girls on the Run 5K knows that it is unlike any other running event. It is a celebration of and for the girls who are completing a ten-week season of Girls on the Run programming. By the day of the 5K, their enthusiasm is so unbridled that they are running around before the race! Positive energy abounds as the girls dance to warm-up music, get their hair "happied" and "tattoos" on their faces, and gather with their teammates to hold hands as they head to the starting line. Our 5K is a celebration that will bring a smile to your face! You will be so glad you joined us!

CATALYST CLIMB AT THE CLIMBING CENTER

River Sports Outfitters at 865-523-0066

10:00 am at River Sports Outfitters

Join us the first Saturday of every month as we climb with Catalyst Sports! This event is for anyone with physical disabilities. All ages are welcome to come and climb our rock wall! Cost is $10

COFFEE AND CLIMB WITH A RANGER

Obed Wild and Scenic River at 423-346-6294

10:00 am at Obed Wild & Scenic River

Presented on the first Saturday of each month. If you have ever wanted to try the sport of rock climbing but did not know where to begin, let us help eliminate some of the uncertainty for you. We provide all of the gear. All that you need to bring is drinking water, sturdy footwear, a willingness to try new things and a can-do attitude. Depending on participant interests and ability levels, we will travel to one of several different climbing areas around the park and will have participants back to their vehicles by approximately 3 pm EST. Would-be rock climbers of all ages are encouraged to attend. In the event of inclement weather, call the park visitor center.

When and Where:

-- 10:00 am-10:30 am (ET): Join a park ranger for a free cup of coffee at Lilly Bridge.

-- 11:00 am-12:00 pm (ET): There will be a dedicated children-only climb for children ages 12 and under.

-- 12:00 pm-2:00 pm (ET): Visitors of all ages are encouraged to attend at any time during this timeframe.

LET'S MOVE! KNOXVILLE

Let's Move Knoxville at 865-215-6600

10:00 am at Victor Ashe Park

The 6th annual Let's Move! Knoxville event will be held on Saturday, May 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Victor Ashe Park. Kids of all ages are invited to attend the free event that will include hands-on activity booths and demos, opportunities to connect youth with local athletic groups and a student flash mob.

RIVER SPORTS OUTFITTERS BOAT DEMO DAY

River Sports Outfitters at 865-523-0066

10-2 pm at the Cove at Concord Park

It is our largest Demo Day of the year! Come try out the boat you have been meaning to buy! Meet us at our Cove location at Concord Park from 10-2. You can test run many brands and several of our Fishing fleet boats. Please give us a call to make sure the boat you want to see is on our list!

NATIONAL DOG PARK DAY CELEBRATION

PetSafe Brand

11-3 pm at PetSafe Village Dog Park

PetSafe Brand will host its first annual National Dog Park Day Celebration May 6 at the PetSafe Village Dog Park from 11 - 3 pm. Join us for this celebration which will include local pet-friendly vendors, retail partners, dog-friendly treats, a photo booth for pet owners and their furry friends, and more. PetSafe Brand encourages pet owners to gather on this day to celebrate their pets, learn about adoption and enjoy meeting with fellow residents of the Knoxville community.

WOMEN'S BACKPACKING BASICS

REI at 865-584-1938

12:00 pm at REI Knoxville

Want to take your day hikes overnight? Connect with other female hikers and REI to get an overview of backpacking planning, preparation and gear in this women's-only class. Learn how to choose a pack and select proper clothing and footwear. Plus, we'll give you important notes on trail etiquette and Leave No Trace principles. Class is free but registration is required.

SATURDAY NEWBIE BIKE POLO

Knoxville Hardcourt Bike Polo

2-7 pm at Skyline Park

First and foremost, the fewer rules the better. Bike polo is about getting together with a bunch of friends and having fun on bikes for a couple hours. Come learn how to play this awesome cycling sport!

What is bike polo? It's like hockey on bicycles! 2 teams of players ride bicycles and use mallets to strike a ball into the other team’s goal. We encourage, people of all ages and genders to come out and learn how to play. We will have mallets available to use. Just bring a bicycle, helmet, and maybe some gloves.

CANOE/ KAYAK FLOAT - WILDLIFE FLOAT, RANKIN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA, DOUGLAS LAKE

Harvey Broome Group of the Sierra Club TBA - Must pre-register with Ron Shrieves at ronshrieves@gmail.com for meeting time and location

We'll explore backwaters accessible only by canoe or kayak and hopefully observe some migratory birds that visit this wetland paradise. The float is suitable for paddlers with reasonable flat-water paddling skills - no currents to contend with. We'll meet about 3 pm and drive to the boat launch, launching our boats by 5 PM (sunset about 8:30 pm). Expect to paddle about 5 miles. Group size will be limited as necessary to facilitate birding activity. Level: easy. You'll have to arrange your own canoe/kayak rentals if you need a boat. For rentals, you might try Michael Sledjeski of the Rankin Bottoms Project, email mtnsylva@earthlink.net, or one of the outfitters in the Knoxville area. A similar trip is scheduled in May as necessary to accommodate additional participants.

WOMEN'S APPALACHIAN TRAIL THRU-HIKING PBS DOCUMENTARY

REI at 865-584-1938

7:00 pm at Hexagon Brewing Company

Join REI at Hexagon Brewing Company as we watch "Trail Magic: The true story of Emma Grandma Gatewood," a PBS documentary about Emma Gatewood, the 1st woman to solo thru-hike the AT in 1955 at the age of 67 after raising 11 children and surviving domestic abuse! Emma Gatewood's spirit speaks to the courageous, undaunted spirit of Appalachian people everywhere! After raising her 11 children, Emma decided she needed another challenge! When she read about the Appalachian Trail in National Geographic she discovered that no woman had ever hiked the trail alone from one end to the other. It sounded like a challenge to her, so she decided to BE that woman! Never mind that she was 66 years old, never mind that she had no real equipment, never mind that she had no experience. This is her story... We're committed to creating more opportunities for women to spend more time outdoors. That's why this year, we're offering more classes, events and trips designed for women than ever before. Join us, and let's make outside the largest level playing field on earth. Event is free.

THE GLOW TROT

Vineyard Church and Blount Community Church

8:30 pm at William Blount High School

For three years, hundreds of runners and walkers have brightened up Blount County with the annual Glow Trot 5K. And each shining step has raised money for vital mission’s work in Haiti—over $20,000 so far. And now's your chance to light up the night again in 2017!

MAY 7

SUCK IT UP BUTTERCUP KTM 5K

Road Kill Timing at 865-804-7091

8:00 am at Oak Ridge Marina

Road Kill Timing proudly presenting a special event in Memory of Kerry Trammell. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to Aven Crane Cancer Foundation to help pay for expensive medical expenses related to treatment of Rhabdomyosarcoma and on-going side effects of treatments, and to help other children who are also fighting this battle. Register NOW for the physical race on May 3rd or be a "VIRTUAL RUNNER".

If you can't make it to the physical race, we understand. But we have an answer for you! We have a growing number of people that will be running or walking the race at home – all over the world! These are our "Virtual Runners." So, there are NO excuses not to participate. You can sleep in and still get a t-shirt! Or pick your own time to commit to 3.1 miles.  Your family & friends can do a walk/run on a local bike trail or around town that same day.

VIRGIN FALLS POCKET WILDERNESS

Smoky Mountain Hiking Club

8:30 am at Walmart in Lenoir City

This lollipop hike offers 3 impressive waterfalls as well as the usual karst landscape common to the Cumberland Plateau. One of the most unusual features of Virgin Falls itself is that the water drops over a hundred feet only to disappear in a sinkhole. This hike is unusual in that the hike in is almost all downhill, meaning, of course, the hike out is considerably tougher! Hike: about 9 miles with an option to add a mile for an overlook. This could be a wet hike, so plan accordingly. Hiking poles recommended. Rated moderate to difficult depending on weather conditions and water level. Meet at the Lenoir City Walmart on Hwy 321 at 8:30 am. Leader: Brad Reese, bradktn@gmail.com

AMBC TRAIL WORK DAY

Appalachian Mountain Bike Club

9-12 pm at Haw Ridge Park

Grab your gloves, a water bottle, and let's build some trail! Lunch provided.

Details on: Outdoor Knoxville -  http://www.outdoorknoxville.com/ Add your event to our calendar: Submit An Event Form - http://www.outdoorknoxville.com/calendar/submit-event