The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation begins its annual celebration of State Natural Areas Week on Monday. Events in the southeast region range from wildflower and waterfall hikes to slide shows and trash pickup to keep the trails clean. Inclement weather may affect the schedule. For more information, call 615-532-0434 or visit http://tn.gov.environment/na/events/seasonal.shtml.
SLIDE SHOW
* What: Scope out the scenery (sandstone cliffs, waterfalls and rugged canyons) in the Savage Gulf/Stone Door area of the Cumberland Plateau from the comfort of the ranger station.
* When: 3 p.m. CDT Sunday.
* Where: Savage Gulf ranger station, halfway between Gruetli-Laager and Cagle on Highway 339.
* Reservations: Not required.
* Website: www.tn.gov/environment/na/natareas/savage
WILDFLOWER HIKE
* What: A 4-mile strenuous hike through South Cumberland Recreation Area.
* When: Noon CDT Monday.
* Where: Collins Gulf State Natural Area parking lot (follow signs off Highway 108 outside Gruetli-Laager (Grundy County).
* You'll need: Water, lunch, camera.
* Reservations: Not required.
* Website: www.tn.gov/environment/na/natareas/savage
WATERFALL HIKE
* What: This strenuous, 3/4-mile hike into the Collins Gulf area of Savage Gulf State Natural Area follows the rocky terrain to the bottom of Suter Falls to be rewarded with a stunning view of the 30-foot cascade. Then it's another 3/4 mile back up the trail to the parking lot.
* When: 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday.
* Where: Savage Gulf State Natural Area, Collins West trailhead (turn north on 55th Avenue off Highway 109 in Gruetli-Laager (Grundy County).
* Reservations: Not required.
* Website: www.tn.gov/environment/na/natareas/savage
TRASH PICKUP
* What: Help park rangers pick up trash deposited along the banks of Big Fiery Gizzard Creek during spring rains. Trash bags are provided.
* When: Noon CDT April 15.
* Where: Grundy Forest State Natural Area parking area (follow signs off U.S. 41/56 in Tracy City (Grundy County).
* You'll need: Gloves, layered clothing.
* Reservations: Not required.
* Phone: 931-924-2980.
* Website: www.tn.gov/environment/na/natareas/grundy