Educator Trek: Got Elk?

This professional development workshop invites educators to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during elk season. You'll spend two and a half days searching for these impressive animals, which were reintroduced to the park after more than two centuries of absence. The program combines wildlife observation with hands-on learning about elk biology and the park's broader ecosystem. You'll also participate in citizen science activities, documenting snails and lichens while learning techniques you can adapt for your own classroom. The $160 workshop fee covers your two-night lodge stay in Lake Junaluska, some meals, transportation in museum vans, and classroom materials. Group transportation departs from Raleigh at 2pm, though you can also meet everyone at the lodge that evening. Designed for teachers, administrators, substitute teachers, and non-formal educators, the workshop offers 20 contact hours toward North Carolina's Environmental Education Certification Program. Expect moderate activity with hiking up to two miles on uneven terrain. If cost is a concern, reach out directly—the program has funding to help remove financial barriers.