Knoxville offers local spring break options like Meads Quarry Lake and Dollywood, alongside downtown treats and attractions such as Zoo Knoxville, with a focus on relaxation and staying close to home.

A black bear was seen on camera wandering through Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg at night, as reported by weather anchor Ken Weathers and other sources.

Knox County Mayor confirms plans for a new splash pad at French Memorial Park in South Knox County, complementing existing water fun in other regions. Pending approval, construction could start soon for a summer opening.

Bradford pear trees in East Tennessee, while aesthetically pleasing, are invasive and structurally weak, prompting initiatives for removal and replacement with native species.

Embassy Suites by Hilton has opened a new resort in Gatlinburg, offering luxury accommodations and adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains, with a focus on business and leisure travel.

Knox County is updating parks with new ADA-compliant playgrounds in Hardin Valley, including installations at Hardin Valley Community Park and Melton Hill Park, to enhance accessibility and recreation for the area's growing population.

A fisherman caught an alligator in Norris Lake, TN, and the TWRA transferred it to a zoo, emphasizing the illegality and dangers of releasing such animals.

Construction of the new Sunsphere Welcome Center in Knoxville, aimed at enhancing visitor experience, is set to begin, following a color restoration phase.

Tennessee State Parks are offering a variety of free guided hikes on Saturday, showcasing the state's natural beauty as part of their Signature Hikes series.

A No Wake Zone has been established by the TWRA at the junction of Turkey Creek and Tennessee River near Northshore Drive Bridge to enhance safety due to high boat traffic and accidents.

High winds caused trees to topple and close roads in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with crews working to clear and assess the conditions for safety.

Young-Williams Animal Center has taken over animal control services from Knoxville law enforcement, focusing on education and long-term support for pet owners over legal penalties.

Brood XIX cicadas will soon emerge in East Tennessee after 13 years, while Brood XIII is also expected in the Midwest and Southeast, bypassing Memphis.

Darrell's Dream Boundless Playground will be closed on April 27 for the semiannual Day of Caring event, where volunteers will clean and maintain the park.

The Great Smoky Mountains will host the synchronous fireflies event from June 3-10. Visitors need a vehicle reservation from a lottery starting April 26 to attend.

The Gatlinburg Trout Facility has begun renovations, halting its weekly fish stocking program until completion in October. The update includes new raceways and an anti-predator pavilion.

Zoo Knoxville's last elephant, Tonka, receives hospice care due to health complications, ceasing public display and curative treatments.

Lakeshore Park in Knoxville is set to open the new Huie Woodland Playground on May 8, featuring natural play elements like a slide and boulder scramble.

Legal action is initiated by the Southern Environmental Law Center to protect the Berry Cave salamander in Tennessee, alleging U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's failure to safeguard the species.

Tonka, the last elephant at Zoo Knoxville and one of North America's largest African elephants, was euthanized due to worsening health issues related to his leg.

Zoo Knoxville debuts a bat-eared fox kit named Ziggy, who is starting to explore outside its den. Visitors can view Ziggy, especially during early or late hours.

Molly Branch Fireflies in Knox County offers a public viewing of synchronized fireflies without a lottery. The event runs from June 7-18, with tickets available first-come, first-served.

Mead's Quarry at Ijams Nature Center reopens with new safety enhancements, including a no-go zone marked by buoys, after a rockslide prompted safety concerns.

Knoxville received a $225,000 federal grant to combat invasive species, aiming to restore native flora over 100 acres of parks and greenways, with plans underway for eradication efforts to begin next year.

Knoxville receives a $225,000 federal grant to eradicate invasive plant species from its urban parks and introduce native vegetation.

A black bear entered an Anakeesta concession stand, causing a brief encounter with an employee. No injuries were reported, and the park emphasized coexistence with wildlife.

Tripadvisor ranked Dollywood as the top theme park in the US and 10th worldwide, based on a year of traveler reviews, surpassing Disney's Magic Kingdom. Dolly Parton aims to make the park a family-friendly destination with genuine charm.

Dollywood is named the top theme park in the US by Tripadvisor for 2024, and also ranks tenth globally in the Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards.

The splashpad at Knox County's Carl Cowan Park is closed for repairs due to water leaks and pump issues, with maintenance underway to reopen by July 4th. Residents are directed to alternative parks.

Zoo Knoxville introduces "Early Bird Hours" from July 15-31, opening at 8 a.m. to offer cooler visits and unique experiences like behind-the-scenes animal care.

Dollywood in Tennessee closed due to a water main break with maintenance underway. The incident only affected the theme park, not the adjacent water park or resort.

Knoxville is developing a $4.6 million pavilion at the Urban Wilderness Gateway Park, expected to be completed by late 2025, enhancing outdoor recreation and community gatherings.

Soaky Mountain Waterpark is set to unveil a new 825-foot waterslide named "Rafter's Rage" for the 2025 season, offering a unique rafting experience with lateral accelerations.

Soaky Mountain Waterpark announced "Rafter's Rage," a new 825-foot six-person raft ride slated for 2025, promising speeds up to 19 mph and a unique experience with four zero-G arcs.

ABR cares for bear cubs after their mother was euthanized for human safety concerns in Tennessee, underscoring the issue of bears becoming too comfortable around people.

Bays Mountain Park, sponsored by NETAR, offers free admission on August 25, allowing the public to enjoy nature activities, with additional fees for planetarium shows and barge rides.

Crockett Days at David Crockett Birthplace State Park celebrates the frontiersman's 238th birthday with 18th-century activities and demonstrations from August 16-18.

Kingsport unveils new playground equipment at Riverview Park and Riverfront Park, enhancing local recreational spaces for children.

Kingsport Parks and Recreation offers skateboarding lessons for kids at Scott Adams Memorial Skatepark, emphasizing safety and basics, with sessions on Mondays in September.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park's visitation in 2023 generated $2.2 billion for the local economy, supporting over 33,000 jobs, according to the National Park Service.

Zoo Knoxville successfully bred seven Madagascar tree boas, contributing to the conservation of this species vulnerable to habitat loss and illegal trade.

Knoxville is finalizing its Cradle of Country Music Park makeover, valued at $1.2 million. The downtown park will soon feature a new art installation and serve as a venue for music events, reflecting the city's historical ties to country music.

Kingsport is hosting an inclusive "Be the Miracle" A.S.P.I.R.E. trunk or treat event for individuals with disabilities on November 2 at Brickyard Park.

Laurel Falls Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will close for 18 months starting January 6, 2025, for rehabilitation including path widening and safety improvements.

Thirteen bear cubs were euthanized by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency due to an illness outbreak, a decision that has led to heartbreak and controversy, particularly affecting the Appalachian Bear Rescue.

The Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is offering beginner guitar lessons for kids aged 9-16 at the V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex, with registration costing $100.

Zoo Knoxville mourns the death of Kowali, a 47-year-old Western lowland gorilla; her decline in health was tied to heart failure. She played a key role in raising awareness for her species' conservation.

The Kingsport Carousel, beloved since 2015, has reopened after January maintenance, welcoming visitors for affordable rides on its hand-carved creatures.

Zoo Knoxville mourns the loss of Dolly, a 56-year-old Southern white rhino, reputed to be the oldest in the US, after being euthanized due to declining health.

Escaped pet porcupine in Knoxville was safely returned to Young Williams Animal Center, prompting the TWRA to remind owners about securing exotic pets properly.

Kingsport's Parks and Rec hosts a virtual St. Patrick's Day scavenger hunt, with winners getting a free pavilion rental. Registration opens March 10 with digital hunt cards provided.

Zoo Knoxville grieves the death of Lucille, a 24-year-old giraffe who spent her life at the park, known for her height, calmness, and fondness for greens. She contributed to conservation awareness and the joy of visitors.

Kingsport, TN solicits public input on recreational space renovations, with meetings planned to discuss improvements to Bays Mountain and Brickyard Park, aiming for inclusivity and engagement.

Firefighters are tackling a brush fire named the Bear Fire in the Cherokee National Forest, which has grown to 225 acres. No structures are threatened, and recent rains may help containment efforts.

The Tennessee Valley Fair faces uncertainties about its future at Chilhowee Park as lease renegotiations loom and space constraints arise due to local development.

The article discusses Spigelia marilandica, a resilient perennial with red and yellow flowers, highlighting its adaptability and popularity, despite a potentially misleading common name.

Bays Mountain Park is reintroducing its "Park After Dark" event on April 26, featuring food trucks, a star-watching program, guided hikes, and evening barge rides, with volunteer opportunities available.

Johnson City Parks and Recreation is hosting Kids to Parks Day on May 17 at Willow Springs Park, offering outdoor activities aimed at reducing screen time and fostering a love for nature.

Zoo Knoxville's new Rhino Reserve, featuring rhinos Mylo and Ranger, opens May 23. It focuses on conservation education and is part of the AZA Species Survival Plan.

Zoo Knoxville named their new red wolf pups and bat-eared fox kits after a public vote, highlighting their conservation efforts for the world's most endangered wolf species and the vital role of bat-eared foxes in ecosystems.

Zoo Knoxville introduced two young Southern White Rhinos from The Wilds in Ohio to their Rhino Reserve, as part of a conservation effort for the near threatened species.

Zoo Knoxville anticipates the birth of a Western lowland gorilla in late 2025, with mother Kumi conceived through a conservation program. The zoo monitors her health closely and trains her for motherhood.

The University of Tennessee Gardens highlights 'Silver Falls' dichondra for its metallic silver foliage and trailing growth, perfect for gardens and hanging baskets.

Enjoy free entry to Bays Mountain Park this Sunday in Kingsport, TN, with hiking, wildlife, and scenic trails, courtesy of local realtors.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials warn against feeding bears, noting increased incidents and emphasizing that such actions are illegal and dangerous. Violators can face hefty fines or jail time.

The Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area will host the Art in the Park Photo Contest reception on September 5, featuring a photography exhibit, refreshments, and live music.

The National Park Service and the Back Country Horsemen of Big South Fork are upgrading the Station Camp Campground, replacing old horse tie-stalls with new corrals.

The Mountain Life Festival returns to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering hands-on experiences of Appalachian traditions, and it's free for families.

The annual elk rut in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is underway, with officials urging visitors to maintain a safe distance from the unpredictable animals.

Bays Mountain Park is starting water tank renovations on October 2 with completion expected by early December. Facilities like restrooms and water fountains will be unavailable; visitors should bring their own water or use provided alternatives.

A chimpanzee at Zoo Knoxville underwent a rare spinal surgery to remove a tumor, with both veterinary and human neurosurgeons collaborating. Mwelu, the chimp, is recovering with improved mobility post-surgery.

Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium prepares for Autumn Park After Dark 2025, offering various activities including barge rides, nocturnal hikes, and wildlife education on October 25.

Zoo Knoxville's chimpanzee, Lu, recovers after a landmark spinal surgery that removed a benign tumor, in collaboration between veterinary and human neurologists.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park will stay open despite the government shutdown, supported by a community and state coalition, ensuring full visitor services until November 2.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is set to conduct a controlled burn in the Cataloochee Valley to reduce hazardous fuels, maintain meadows, and enhance wildlife habitats.

Kipekee, a rare spotless giraffe from Brights Zoo in Tennessee, has passed away, sparking an investigation into the cause of death. Her unique condition drew international attention.

Anakeesta will hold a Feb. 10 job fair in Gatlinburg as the mountaintop park hires across food, retail, ranger and CDL roles ahead of a $100M expansion.

A rockslide and two wildfires have closed sections of Little River Road, trails and backcountry campsites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Expect detours and limited access.

Rangers and partner agencies handled 38 emergency calls in March — including hoists and rope rescues — and officials warn hikers to plan for swollen streams and unstable trails.

Great Smoky Mountains will move backcountry permits to Recreation.gov on April 30; a $6 reservation fee and removal of a $40 cap could raise costs for longer trips. Existing bookings will be honored.

Abrams Falls Trail was closed April 12 after park officials reported bear activity. Rangers urge hikers to stay 50 yards away and report sightings.

Three bear encounters at Ramsey Cascades prompted temporary closures as rangers monitor activity and warn visitors to secure food and keep distance from bears.

Storm damage tore the netting at Dollywood's Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, leaving some rescued eagles temporarily off-site. Local reports differ on whether three birds are unaccounted for.

The Smokies will open an online lottery on April 24 for Elkmont’s synchronous firefly nights May 20–27. Officials will award 960 vehicle passes; entry costs $1 and winners pay $29.

Venomous Asian needle ants have been confirmed in Tennessee, including parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park; their painful stings can trigger severe allergic reactions.

On Earth Day, Knoxville activated its first solar array with battery storage at E.V. Davidson Community Center — a DOE-funded installation installed by Solar Alliance with KUB support.

Bill and Tracy Frist are backing a new Appalachian wellness center at Maryville College that links health training with conservation in the Southern Appalachians. The Alexander Institute is projected at 65,000 sq ft with $12M in state seed funding.

Police warned after a bear was seen in north Clinton Wednesday; officials posted safety steps and a non‑emergency line for sightings. Authorities urge residents to secure attractants and report sightings.

TWRA says the 'collar' seen on a Maryville bear was a GPS tracker used to monitor a mother and her four cubs after they were relocated to the Smokies.

TWRA warns Middle Tennessee that black bears have been spotted in Hickman, Dickson, Wilson and Sumner counties; secure food sources and report sightings.