The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is asking for volunteers to come get their hands dirty.
Smokies Service Days are returning for the summer with five upcoming volunteering opportunities during June and July.
GSMNP staff will lead service activities on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. The activities will include tasks suited for a wide range of age groups with opportunities to assist with campground clean-ups, maintenance and gardening.
Optional enrichment activities including hikes, festivals and lectures will follow every work session.
Interested individuals and groups should register before the scheduled dates by contacting Project Coordinator Logan Boldon at (865)436-1278 or logan_boldon@partner.nps.gov.
Current service opportunities include:
June 9: Campground Clean-Up at Elkmont
Enrichment Activity: Hike along Little River to a picnic at Huskey Branch Falls - Noon to 4 p.m.
June 16: Campground Clean-Up at Smokemont
Enrichment Activity: Women's Work Festival at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center - Noon to 4 p.m.
June 30: Gardening at Oconaluftee
Enrichment Activity - Ranger-led program on natural and cultural history of the area - Noon to 2 p.m.
July 7: Picnic Area & Campground Clean-Up at Deep Creek
Enrichment Activity - Hike to Juney Whank Falls, Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls - Noon - 3 p.m.
July 21: Campground Clean-Up at Cosby
Enrichment Activity: Flora/fauna stroll on Cosby Nature Trail - Noon to 2 p.m.
Volunteers are required to wear close-toed shoes, but tools and safety gear will be provided by park staff. Those staying for the optional enrichment activities will need to provide their own lunch.
Find more volunteer opportunities with GSMNP on their event calendar.