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Spring in the Great Smoky Mountains
Lodge-Based Photo Workshop
Upcoming Departures
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Trip Leader(s)
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Starting From [Block//Current Price]
Single Supplement: +$640.00
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Deposit: $2,000.00
Start/End
Knoxville, TN / Knoxville, TN
Length
6 Days/5 Nights
Fitness Level
Level 1 - What's This?
Group Size
Up To 0 Guests
Highlights
- Experience peak wildflower season, capturing the vibrant colors and delicate beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
- Abundant wildlife, from majestic black bears and graceful elk to a variety of bird species, adding a captivating element to your photography journey.
- Enjoy the benefits of small groups, fostering an intimate and personalized experience tailored to your needs.
- Indulge in the finest meals and comfortable lodging included in your trip, ensuring a truly enjoyable and stress-free experience.
- Be led by the best in the field, with our experienced and knowledgeable trip leaders who will enhance your adventure with their expertise in photography and the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains.
If you have any questions about a trip, itinerary, or gear, our Photo Experience Coordinators are available for a personalized one-on-one consultation to provide all the details you need.
Trip Description:
Discover the vibrant beauty of spring in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located in the southeastern United States, this park is renowned for its diverse plant and animal life, ancient mountains, and Appalachian mountain culture.
Find yourself in a visual feast as nature awakens from winter's slumber. Experience the park's idyllic weather and lush greenery as you witness the enchanting rebirth of spring. With over 1,500 flowering plant species, including a remarkable variety of wildflowers, the landscape transforms into a captivating tapestry of colors from March through June.
But it's not just the flora that flourishes in spring. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife. Keep your camera ready to capture the elusive Black Bear, graceful elk, and a myriad of bird species that grace the skies. From vibrant songbirds to elusive amphibians, the park comes alive with fascinating creatures during this season.
Photographers will find endless inspiration in the Smokies' rich natural offerings. Capture the majesty of the park's iconic tree species, including Eastern Hemlock, Mountain Ash, and various Maples. From misty sunrises over grassy balds to ethereal waterfalls framed by vibrant foliage, every composition becomes a work of art.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness this magical season in the Smokies. Explore the breathtaking vistas, immerse yourself in the incredible variety of plant and wildlife, and capture the essence of spring in one of the most renowned national parks in the country.
Join us for an unforgettable photographic experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the spring season. Book your trip now and embark on a journey of discovery through this natural wonderland.
Please note: We are excited to offer both a standard and “hiker” version of this trip for photographers who like to get out and hike! Not sure which one suits you best? Give us a call at 928-478-1521
Find yourself in a visual feast as nature awakens from winter's slumber. Experience the park's idyllic weather and lush greenery as you witness the enchanting rebirth of spring. With over 1,500 flowering plant species, including a remarkable variety of wildflowers, the landscape transforms into a captivating tapestry of colors from March through June.
But it's not just the flora that flourishes in spring. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife. Keep your camera ready to capture the elusive Black Bear, graceful elk, and a myriad of bird species that grace the skies. From vibrant songbirds to elusive amphibians, the park comes alive with fascinating creatures during this season.
Photographers will find endless inspiration in the Smokies' rich natural offerings. Capture the majesty of the park's iconic tree species, including Eastern Hemlock, Mountain Ash, and various Maples. From misty sunrises over grassy balds to ethereal waterfalls framed by vibrant foliage, every composition becomes a work of art.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness this magical season in the Smokies. Explore the breathtaking vistas, immerse yourself in the incredible variety of plant and wildlife, and capture the essence of spring in one of the most renowned national parks in the country.
Join us for an unforgettable photographic experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the spring season. Book your trip now and embark on a journey of discovery through this natural wonderland.
Please note: We are excited to offer both a standard and “hiker” version of this trip for photographers who like to get out and hike! Not sure which one suits you best? Give us a call at 928-478-1521
What's Included
- All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
- All transportation during the workshop
- All lodging during the workshop
- All permits and park fees
- Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Gratuity for service staff
What's Not Included
Transportation to and from Knoxville, TN
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Trip Itinerary
Trip Itinerary
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
Arrive in Knoxville, TN tonight for an orientation and welcome dinner with the group.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Our inn-based Great Smoky Mountains photography tour starts with an early morning drive from Knoxville to the east side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Smoky Mountain National Park’s spectacular waterfalls and amazing high-country views will be on display today, alongside wildflowers galore. Spring ephemerals include flowers such as trillium, lady slipper orchids, showy orchis, crested dwarf iris, fire pink, columbine, bleeding heart, phacelia, jack-in-the-pulpit, little brown jugs, and violets, to name just a few. And don’t forget your long lenses for opportunities at wildlife like Black bear, deer and elk.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
Once again, we’ll be up early to catch the sunrise on the Great Smoky Mountain divide. Our morning session will be from Newfound Gap. It was here that Roosevelt dedicated the Park with a speech in 1940. Fantastic views of the endless rolling ridges of the Smokies abound today.
While traveling back to our evening accommodations, we’ll be sure to spend time photographing the famous Clingman’s Dome (the highest peak in the Park at 6,643 feet) and the Oconaluftee Valley, which is typically a fantastic place to find and photograph elk.
Day 4 (B,L,D)
We’ll spend today in the beautiful Cades Cove side of the park. We’ll spend the morning photographing the most iconic part of spring in the Smoky Mountains; the wildflowers. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to over 1,500 types of flowering plants, more than any other national park in the country. After shooting we’ll have a picnic breakfast in the Cades Cove picnic area. This area has excellent opportunities for wildlife, so we’ll keep an eye out for some of the Park’s many types of wildlife (black bear, deer, elk, turkeys, and more). A short shuttle ride to our hotel, a tasty Southern dinner, and a cozy night’s sleep top off another rewarding day of Smoky Mountains exploration.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
Our photograph session this morning will be along a beautiful creek, surrounded by colorful, mist-clad mountains. We’ll spend the morning photographing waterfalls during our hike. The agenda for today is to explore all of the amazing things the Smokies’ have to offer! Stunning cascades through forests bursting with an incredible array of plant and animal life, charming mountain creeks, and wildflowers will be on tap for this day.
Tonight’s dinner – an outdoor evening picnic dinner prepared by your guide – is enjoyed in the stunning Cade’s Cove area after a refreshing shower and a bit of down time at our hotel. Bring your cameras to dinner as we’ll spend some time photographing the Cade’s Cove area this evening.
Day 6 (B)
The final morning of our Appalachian experience will bring us to one of the more breathtaking vantage points in the park, where we’ll look to photograph the surrounding Smoky Mountains at dawn. After our shoot we’ll settle in for a short, yet scenic, shuttle ride back to Knoxville. The ride will give us an opportunity to contemplate all of the natural beauty, phenomenal biodiversity, and fascinating history we’ve had the privilege to explore during our tour of Great Smoky Mountain National Park..
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
Arrive in Knoxville, TN tonight for an orientation and welcome dinner with the group.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Our inn-based Great Smoky Mountains photography tour starts with an early morning drive from Knoxville to the east side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Smoky Mountain National Park’s spectacular waterfalls and amazing high-country views will be on display today, alongside wildflowers galore. Spring ephemerals include flowers such as trillium, lady slipper orchids, showy orchis, crested dwarf iris, fire pink, columbine, bleeding heart, phacelia, jack-in-the-pulpit, little brown jugs, and violets, to name just a few. And don’t forget your long lenses for opportunities at wildlife like Black bear, deer and elk.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
Once again, we’ll be up early to catch the sunrise on the Great Smoky Mountain divide. Our morning session will be from Newfound Gap. It was here that Roosevelt dedicated the Park with a speech in 1940. Fantastic views of the endless rolling ridges of the Smokies abound today.
While traveling back to our evening accommodations, we’ll be sure to spend time photographing the famous Clingman’s Dome (the highest peak in the Park at 6,643 feet) and the Oconaluftee Valley, which is typically a fantastic place to find and photograph elk.
Day 4 (B,L,D)
We’ll spend today in the beautiful Cades Cove side of the park. We’ll spend the morning photographing the most iconic part of spring in the Smoky Mountains; the wildflowers. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to over 1,500 types of flowering plants, more than any other national park in the country. After shooting we’ll have a picnic breakfast in the Cades Cove picnic area. This area has excellent opportunities for wildlife, so we’ll keep an eye out for some of the Park’s many types of wildlife (black bear, deer, elk, turkeys, and more). A short shuttle ride to our hotel, a tasty Southern dinner, and a cozy night’s sleep top off another rewarding day of Smoky Mountains exploration.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
Our photograph session this morning will be along a beautiful creek, surrounded by colorful, mist-clad mountains. We’ll spend the morning photographing waterfalls during our hike. The agenda for today is to explore all of the amazing things the Smokies’ have to offer! Stunning cascades through forests bursting with an incredible array of plant and animal life, charming mountain creeks, and wildflowers will be on tap for this day.
Tonight’s dinner – an outdoor evening picnic dinner prepared by your guide – is enjoyed in the stunning Cade’s Cove area after a refreshing shower and a bit of down time at our hotel. Bring your cameras to dinner as we’ll spend some time photographing the Cade’s Cove area this evening.
Day 6 (B)
The final morning of our Appalachian experience will bring us to one of the more breathtaking vantage points in the park, where we’ll look to photograph the surrounding Smoky Mountains at dawn. After our shoot we’ll settle in for a short, yet scenic, shuttle ride back to Knoxville. The ride will give us an opportunity to contemplate all of the natural beauty, phenomenal biodiversity, and fascinating history we’ve had the privilege to explore during our tour of Great Smoky Mountain National Park..
Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures, and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and landscape photography, we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions.
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Why Choose Backcountry Journeys?
UNPARALELLED
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Explore over 100 worldwide photo tours and workshops tailored to photographers of all skill levels, from iconic U.S. National Parks to Africa's untamed savannahs.
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We're proud to offer unmatched photography trips led by exceptional instructors who not only excel in photography but also serve as expert guides.
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Join the Backcountry Journeys Tribe, where shared adventures in breathtaking locations foster lasting connections with fellow photographers in a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Testimonials From Our Customers
Julie K.
"I have traveled with Backcountry Journeys (BCJ) several times over the last 4 years to Glacier NP, Costa Rica (2x), Smoky Mountains NP, Joshua Tree, Zion and Bryce NPs, and most recently to Alaska.
Every trip with BCJ has been an outstanding experience. The guides are professional photographers who put the experience of the guests first. They are willing to provide as much hands on help as you need/want. The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and well trained in wilderness safety as well as the areas they guide.
BCJ trips are well run from the time of reservation through the entire trip. They will take you to great places and find great photographic opportunities."
Every trip with BCJ has been an outstanding experience. The guides are professional photographers who put the experience of the guests first. They are willing to provide as much hands on help as you need/want. The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and well trained in wilderness safety as well as the areas they guide.
BCJ trips are well run from the time of reservation through the entire trip. They will take you to great places and find great photographic opportunities."
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Scott S.
"BCJ provides an outstanding experience for photographers of all levels of experience/expertise. Each day's excursion is well planned-out and the guides always have a back-up plan if the weather is less than cooperative.
I have now been on 5 trips and each one seems better than the last. I find the guides to be very helpful and personable. The guides provide the level of hands-on assistance each participant wants.
The accommodations are always good, taking into consideration what each particular destination has to offer. I plan to continue doing these trips with BCJ and can't recommend them highly enough."
I have now been on 5 trips and each one seems better than the last. I find the guides to be very helpful and personable. The guides provide the level of hands-on assistance each participant wants.
The accommodations are always good, taking into consideration what each particular destination has to offer. I plan to continue doing these trips with BCJ and can't recommend them highly enough."
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Katherine P.
"I have now been on 8 trips with Backcountry Journeys. I love traveling with this company, as I am a woman traveling alone, and all I have to do is show up and they take care of everything else.
They have wonderful, caring, helpful, FUN, and knowledgeable guides who make the days fly by. They get us to the best photography sites possible and are always willing to help with anything and answer all questions.
We stay in great places and there is always too much wonderful food! I have met other travelers on their trips who will be friends for life, plus the guides are more than guides--they become friends too. I know I will be doing more traveling with them in the future."
They have wonderful, caring, helpful, FUN, and knowledgeable guides who make the days fly by. They get us to the best photography sites possible and are always willing to help with anything and answer all questions.
We stay in great places and there is always too much wonderful food! I have met other travelers on their trips who will be friends for life, plus the guides are more than guides--they become friends too. I know I will be doing more traveling with them in the future."
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Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024