DOGWOOD ARTS HIGHLIGHTING OUR REGION’S NATURAL BEAUTY BY WAY OF HIKES & BLOOMS

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – It may feel wintery outside, but Dogwood Arts will be ready to kick off annual spring events with the return of the Hikes & Blooms program March 18-18 in various locations in Knoxville.

Hikes & Blooms is made possible with the help of Legacy Parks Foundation.

Whether on a greenway through a historic park or on a natural trail through the woods, you will observe historic relics and beautiful wildflowers among the dogwood trees on these easy, four-mile hikes. The interactive hikes will highlight interesting facts, features, and flora in the unique locations. Hikers should wear comfortable clothing and bring any water or snacks you might need. No pre-registration is required and the hikes are free.

*Please arrive a few minutes before 9:00am each day so that hikes begin on time.

Fort Dickerson led by Trek South

9 a.m. Saturday, March 18

520 Augusta Ave., Knoxville, TN 37920

Meet hike leaders from Trek South to explore the Civil War site built by the Federal army along a forested ridge south of the Tennessee River. Joan Markel of the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture and Steve Dean, local Civil War documentarian will discuss the history of the area as you view authentic replica cannons, an earthen fort, and an overlook at the beautiful quarry lake on this moderate 3.5-mile hike. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

Baker Creek Preserve led by Happy Hikers

9 a.m. Wednesday, April 12

3700 Lancaster Dr., Knoxville, TN 37920

Gather with leaders from the Happy Hikers group to discover the meandering trails of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness just minutes from downtown. You’ll take the easy Sycamore Loop 1.2 miles, where you’ll find native vegetation and giant sycamore trees, and then climb a more strenuous 0.8 miles on Best Medicine to a beautiful view of the valley at Pappy’s Point. From here, you may be able to see the windmills on Buffalo Mountain to the north before returning to the base of the trail system.

Dogwood Arts, presented by ORNL Federal Credit Union, is a 501(c)3 organization with a mission to promote and celebrate our region’s art, culture, and natural beauty. 

For more information on Dogwood Arts, visit www.dogwoodarts.com or call 865-637.4561.

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