Queer Winter Tree ID & Day Hike - Tennessee
February 7, 2026 — 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm ET
Last day to register: February 5, 2026
Join TVOP Volunteer Atticus for an introduction to winter tree identification!
Many trees of Tennessee lose their leaves in the winter and become tricky to identify, but through shared knowledge in collaboration with Ari Puentes, we'll hike some trails and learn how to identify based on other features.
Ari has studied mycology and has experience in dendrology within the southeast; he will point out trees' form, terminal buds, and bark for identification and focus on native species of the area.
The initial trail is a 0.8 mile loop with a narrow path and primarily crosses over compacted soil with gentle inclines throughout. It is within a forested area but the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked. The path is unobstructed but starts with a short set of stairs.
After finishing the initial trail, we will have the option of practicing winter tree ID on a 1.0 mile trail with a similarly narrow, compacted soil path through a forested area. There are more roots on this trail and it runs alongside a stream that intermittently flows throughout the year.
We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.
GENERAL INFO
Location: Kodak, TN (Miccosukee, ᏣᎳᎫᏪᏘᏱ Tsalaguwetiyi (Cherokee, East), and S’atsoyaha (Yuchi) lands)
Parking: There is a large gravel parking lot that is free to everyone.
Pets: Friendly pets are welcome at this event.
Meet: February 7, 2026
Hike: 1.8 miles, 216 feet elevation gain
Cost: This event is completely free to access! We welcome donations of any amount, which help us continue to provide these programs. We appreciate your support and your contribution!
Bring: Water, snacks, warm layers, comfortable hiking shoes, and sun protection.
COVID SAFETY
Masks are not required at this event. Please be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.
-
Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.