Everything You Need to Know About the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
For over 50 years, the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont has been connecting people to nature through residential programs, research, community engagement and advocacy for outdoor learning. Their mission has always been to educate both youth and adults through programs that promote self-discovery, critical thinking, and effective teaching and leadership. Here is everything you need to know about the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont:
1. They’re Focused on Community Impact
Tremont Institute has partnered with many local Smoky Mountain communities to strengthen youth education and educator preparedness by increasing access to the great outdoors. They believe that by empowering people to explore their role in the environment, that communities will benefit from the increased knowledge and experiences that go hand-in-hand with outdoor education. The Tremont Institute envisions communities where there is a multigenerational environmental appreciation and stewardship. They encourage youth to discover personal connections to nature and hope these same young people engage in educational practices that cultivate curiosity, leadership, social skills and academic motivation.
2. They Host Summer Camps
Whether you’re looking to take your little ones on an adventure to the Smokies or sending your teen on a fun summer trip with their friends, the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont has a summer camp option for you! Your kids will be able to engage in an in-depth summer learning experience that will give them a new appreciation for their environment and the importance of being good stewards towards the Earth. From backpacking in the wilderness to studying the lives of the Smokies’ wildlife, there are tons of fun activities to take part in. There are camps for younger kids and families (ages 4-9), kids (ages 9-12) and teens (ages 13-17).
3. You Can Get Your School Involved
If you’re a teacher or school administrator, you should definitely consider taking your kids on a field trip with the Tremont Institute. Step into an outdoor classroom and let your students explore and learn outside the walls of the school! Their awesome curriculum and staff of top-quality, full-time educators will ensure that your students are not only equipped with environmental skills and knowledge that they need, but also leave with a new curiosity and appreciation for the world around them.
4. They Hold Awesome Workshops
Tremont Institute holds workshops for all ages and interests. They host multiple Teacher Escape weekends throughout the year, in addition to three Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Programs (SANCP), backpacking trips, photography workshops and geology workshops. In these workshops you’ll learn all about what makes the Smokies so special and how you can work to ensure the beauty of these mountains is still around for years to come. Whether you’re seeking more information on wilderness emergency medical or just looking for a fun family adventure, you’ll find the perfect workshop that fits your needs.
5. They’re Building a Second Location
The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont recently announced that they plan on beginning construction on a second location soon! At a recent fundraising event, the institute’s president and CEO Catey McClary, explained how they have a “really bold” vision for the new campus and hope to continue educating people about the environment and land around them!
Now that you know everything about the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, you can stay up to date on the opening of their exciting new location. Looking for other ways to experience the Smokies? Learn about all the exciting things to do in the national park and begin making your way to the Smoky Mountains soon!
