Volunteers needed to staff Information Center at Clingmans Dome

by Feb 19, 2014Happenings0 comments

Great Smoky Mountain National Park is recruiting volunteers to staff the Information Center at Clingmans Dome, from April 1 through Nov. 30.  The center sits at an elevation of 6,300 feet and is a source of information for the national park.  Volunteers are needed to provide educational, recreational and trip planning information.

Until recent years, visitors to this popular destination did not have a chance to regularly obtain information about the park.  With the help of volunteers staffing the center and walking along the Tower Trail, visitors can inquire and learn about the trails and interesting facets of the high elevation spruce-fir ecosystem.

Other helpful services provided include the ability to purchase guides, maps, outdoor apparel, and other products sold by the Great Smoky Mountain s Association (GSMA).  GSMA is a primary park partner and is involved in a number of projects to improve the visitors’ experience.

Volunteers will be working alongside GSMA employees and each volunteer is asked to work at least one four-hour shift per week, either 9:30 am until 1:30 pm or 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm.  Volunteers are needed to fill all days of the week, but especially Friday through Sunday.  Interested persons will be provided orientation and training before their tour of duty.

Volunteers will be needed during peak season, from April 1 through November 30.  Training will be held at the Oconaluftee Administration Building north of Cherokee, North Carolina on Thursday, March 13.  To sign up for this volunteer program or for more information, please contact Florie Takaki 497-1906 or Florie_Takaki@nps.gov Monday through Friday.

– NPS