Outdoor Enthusiast Expo

Excursions

*The Deer Hunting Academy, Fly Fishing Classics, and Kayak Course excursions on Saturday have a limited number of slots. Interested participants should select a time when registering. If the number of slots is filled, you will be placed on a waiting list. The 10:00 AM Kayak Course may also extend past the start of the 1:00 PM excursions.

What to Expect

Backcountry Hiking: Gain essential skills in trip planning, navigation, safety, and “Leave No Trace” practices with a guided hike to put lessons into practice.

Deer Hunting Academy: In partnership with the Tennessee Wildlife Federation, this session introduces participants to deer hunting through mentored, hands-on education. Topics include scouting, habitat, stand placement, firearm safety, ethical harvest practices, and deer hunting’s role in conservation.

Fly Fishing: Learn casting, not tying, and the basics for a better fishing experience!

Habitat Rx: Learn practical land management strategies to improve wildlife habitat for hunting, birdwatching, or biodiversity on your property. Participants will leave with actionable steps and tools to create thriving habitats.

Kayak and Canoe Course: Build confidence in paddling through hands-on training and an off-site boating trip that covers safety, handling, and stewardship.

Mindfulness in Nature: Discover how engaging our senses to connect with nature can enhance mental health and overall well-being. In Japan, this mindful practice is known as Shinrin-yoku, or Forest Bathing, and has been shown to improve both physical and mental health. We will guide you in intentionally reconnecting with nature through mindfulness practices that engage each of the five senses. Experience and appreciate the natural world in a profoundly new way!

Mountain Biking: Learn the fundamentals of trail riding, bike handling, and safety.

Outdoor Meat Cookery: A hands-on program where participants prepare wild game and locally sourced meats over open flames, grills, and smokers while learning safe handling, preparation, and creative recipes.

Waterfowl Hunting Poly Tech: Explore the traditions and skills of waterfowl hunting, from identification and scouting to calling, decoy placement, firearm safety, and conservation ethics.

Your Wild Network: Meet event sponsors, conservation partners, and outdoor industry professionals who can help connect participants to ongoing opportunities in outdoor recreation.

Age Statement

The Outdoor Enthusiast Expo excursions are designed with young adults and older participants in mind. If you have a youth who is interested in joining an excursion, please reach out in advance to rc@utk.edu so we can discuss the best fit for their participation.

But don’t worry—there will be plenty of exhibits and hands-on activities for youth and those young at heart, known as our “Outings.” These will run throughout the day, so be sure to stop by and have some fun!

Featured Outings include:

• 🎣 Fly Tying / Create Your Own Fishing Lure – Learn the art of fly-tying and build a take-home lure.
• 🐟 Backyard Bass – Practice casting skills in a fun, family-friendly game.
• 🦌 Oh Deer! – A wildlife activity that teaches about animal survival and habitat needs.
• 🦴 Skulls & Pelts – Hands-on exploration of Tennessee wildlife through furs and skulls.
• 🎨 Gyotaku (Fish Printing) – Create a traditional Japanese fish print to take home.
• 🎯 Shooting Sports – Safe introduction to archery or other shooting disciplines.