Put some spring in your step

will see four of South Cumberland’s waterfalls. Learn about the ecosystem that grows in Fiery Gizzard as well as some of that area’s history. Wear sturdy shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather and bring plenty of water and some snacks.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21

› Where: Booker T. Washington State Park, 5801 Champion Road

› When: 8-10 a.m.

› Fee: Free

› For more information: 423-260-0366

Join Kahla Stewart for an early morning walk through the park. Dress for the weather, wear closed-toe shoes and bring water.

› Where: Cumberland Mountain

State Park, 24 Office Drive, Crossville

› When: 10 a.m.-noon CDT

› Fee: Free, suggested donation of $5 or $10

› For more information: 931484-6138

Meet at the park office for this hike to learn about plants and animals that make their homes on Cumberland Mountain during this 2-mile, easy-to-moderate hike along Byrd Creek.

› Where: Cumberland Trail State Park, 220 Park Road, Caryville

› When:

› Free: Free, suggested donation of $5 or $10

› For more information:

423-480-3047

9 a.m.-noon (Eastern)

Meet at Stinging Fork State Natural Area parking lot, located on Shut-In Gap Road in Spring City, Tennessee, for a 3-mile round-trip hike. Terrain is moderately strenuous, so wear sturdy boots and dress for the weather. Dogs on leashes with up-to-date shot records are welcome.

› Where: Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer

› When: Two hikes, both starting at 9 a.m. CDT

› Fee: Free, suggested donation of $5 or $10

› For more information: 423-881-5298

Join a ranger at the playground in Village Green at 9 a.m. for a two-hour hike along the Turkey Pen, Gorge Overlook and Woodland trails.

A second hike, this one to Dog Cove, begins at 9 a.m. and lasts until 1 p.m. CDT. Bring water, snacks/lunch, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a strenuous hike.

› Where: Harrison Bay State Park, 8411 Harrison Bay Road

› When: 10:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. › Fee: Free

› For more information: 423344-6214

Join Ranger Matt Vawter on a 4.2-mile hike around Bay Point Loop Trail. Wear sturdy, close-toe shoes and bring a water bottle.

› Where: Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park, 404 Spring Creek Road, Delano

› When: 10 a.m.-noon

› Fee: Free, but suggested donation of $5 or $10; $3 parking at Ocoee Whitewater Center

› For more information: 423-263-0050

Meet at the Ocoee Whitewater Center for a 2.6-mile (one way) hike along Old Cooper Road Trail. Wear sturdy, closedtoe shoes and bring a water bottle.

› Where: Red Clay State Park, 1140 Red Clay Park Road, Cleveland.

› When: 1:30-2:30 p.m. › Fee: Free, suggested donation of $5 or $10

› For more information: 423-478-0339

Join a ranger for a halfmile tour of Red Clay’s Cherokee council grounds. Wear sturdy hiking/walking shoes, bring bug spray, sunscreen and water.

› Where: South Cumberland State Park, 11745 Highway 41, Monteagle, Tenn.

› When: 2-6 p.m. CDT › Fee: Free, suggested donation of $5 or $10

› For more information: 931-924-2980

Collins Gulf is wellknown for its spring wildflowers and this 5-mile hike may offer a glimpse of early spring ephemerals. The hike is considered difficult, with a good bit of elevation change on rocky terrain, so hikers need to wear proper footwear, bring water, snacks and a camera.

STAFF FILE PHOTO BY TIM BARBER A hike around Bay Point Loop Trail at Harrison Bay State Park is scheduled for Saturday, March 21, at 10:30 a.m.