Fun Finding Fungi

Enoki mushrooms photo

Naturalists lead foragers, experienced and inexperienced alike, on a mushroom-hunting expedition at Ijams Nature Center.

No Roads, No Kings

Roan Highlands photo

Two different walks — a hike in Roan Highlands and a march in Asheville — offer expressions of what it means to be an American.

Touching Grass

poplar leaf photo

Finding a refuge for ‘brain-grazing reflection’ during tumultuous times by taking a walk through Collier Preserve in Powell.

In the Belly of the Mountain

Silverfalls photo.

A tour of Tuckaleechee Caverns: slippery steps, stalactites and stalagmites, a waterfall, and maybe a mastodon tooth.

Paddling Through History

Watauga paddling photo.

A memorable spill at an elusive ledge colors a recent run through storied Sycamore Shoals on the Watauga River.

Dog Overboard

Maggie in the bow photo.

Unexpected adventures — including impromptu swims, wildlife encounters and surprise car chases — with canine companions on outdoor excursions.

Wildflower Sanctuary

Dean's Woods photo collage.

The flora of Dean’s Woods, a preserve tucked into a South Knoxville neighborhood, seems to exude an ‘air of defiance’ amid its urban surroundings.

Nurturing Local Flora

Joy Grissom photo.

Native Plant Rescue Squad celebrates its 10-year anniversary with an official mascot, new programs and events.

Real Places in Post-truth Times

Bee Rock photo.

Nonprofits such as TennGreen Land Conservancy work to preserve the state’s natural treasures from encroaching development.