The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups who want to contribute to the preservation and maintenance of this natural wonder. From trail rehabilitation to environmental education, there are numerous ways to get involved and make a difference in the Smoky Mountains.
Trails Forever Volunteer Program
The Trails Forever Volunteer Program is a partnership between the National Park Service and the Friends of the Smokies. Volunteers in this program work closely with park staff on trail rehabilitation projects, including:
- Installing drainage structures
- Rehabilitating trail surfaces
- Constructing turnpikes
- Removing brush
- Building foot logs and bridges
To participate in the Trails Forever Volunteer Program, volunteers must be able to hike at least 4 miles and perform strenuous manual labor. Workdays are typically scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Wednesday and Thursday through September, and prior registration is required.
Tremont Volunteer Opportunities
The Tremont Institute, located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a variety of volunteer opportunities that support environmental education programs and events. Volunteers may assist with:
- Event setup
- Guest registration
- Salamander stream monitoring
The salamander monitoring activity requires volunteers to hike moderate distances and use a dichotomous key to identify different species. Monitoring is needed once a month and takes approximately 3 hours per visit.
National Park Service Volunteer Opportunities
The National Park Service (NPS) offers several volunteer opportunities within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including:
Smokies Service Days
These are half-day weekend options for youth and adults, where volunteers can participate in activities such as:
- Vegetation management
- Campground clean-up
- Cemetery maintenance
- Historic preservation
- Stream restoration
- Trail maintenance
- Litter patrol
Trail Maintenance
Volunteers perform trail maintenance tasks, which require the ability to hike at least 3 miles and perform strenuous manual labor.
Adopt-A-Trail Program
Volunteers can adopt a trail and provide critical information to ensure trail accessibility and resource protection.
Litter Patrol
Volunteers pick up litter along trails, at overlooks, and at busy sites within the park.
Campground Host
Volunteers assist ranger staff with campground operations and provide a safe and enjoyable visitor experience.
Roadside Assistants
Volunteers provide roadside assistance to park visitors.
Oconaluftee / Mountain Farm
Volunteers communicate and work with the public, sharing knowledge about the park and Southern Appalachian cultural history.
Elkmont’s Historic ‘Daisy Town’ District
Volunteers provide information about the area’s pre-park logging industry and cultural history.
Roving Volunteers
Volunteers educate visitors about regulations and provide information on trails.
Applying to Become a Volunteer
To apply for volunteer opportunities in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, follow these steps:
-
Trails Forever Volunteer Program: Contact Adam Monroe, the NPS Trails and Facilities Volunteer Coordinator, at
adam_monroe@nps.govor828-497-1949. -
Tremont Volunteer Opportunities: Complete a volunteer application prior to the first volunteer shift and contact project coordinators or sign up for specific opportunities.
-
National Park Service Volunteer Opportunities: Download and complete a VIP Application, indicating the name of each position that interests you. Then, contact the Parkwide Volunteer Coordinator or specific project coordinators for more information and registration.
By volunteering in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can contribute to the preservation and enjoyment of this natural wonder, while also gaining valuable experiences and connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the outdoors.