Embark on a captivating virtual journey with interpretive naturalist Keith Tomlinson, traveling from the subtropical wilderness of Florida’s Everglades to the towering peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains. The adventure spans a wide array of ecosystems—from the coastal mangrove forests of Florida to the lush hardwood hammocksheading north through some of the United States' most biodiverse regions.
In Florida, explore the vibrant Myakka River and Highlands Hammock state parks, home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the rare and endangered Florida panther. Visit the crystal-clear waters of the Ichetucknee River, a true gem of the state. Continuing north, venture into Georgia’s extraordinary Okefenokee Swamp, one of the largest and best-preserved wetlands in North America, teeming with diverse species like alligators, black bears, and migratory birds. Then discover South Carolina’s recently designated Congaree National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, one of the tallest temperate forests in the world.
Tomlinson next heads northwest to the highest mountains east of the Mississippi River—the Great Smoky Mountains. This southern terminus of the Appalachian Range is known for its amazing biodiversity, with over 19,000 species documented, and experts believe up to 80,000 more may exist. The Smokies’ temperate rainforests, characterized by ancient trees and mist-covered valleys, provide a haven for wildlife such as elk, salamanders, and black bears. Along the way, explore topics such as landscape ecology, wildlife, geology, and climate, all while learning about the myriad recreational opportunities these exceptional natural areas offer.
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