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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.