KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Spanning 416 acres in eastern Knox County, Seven Islands State Birding Park is known for it’s beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains, rolling hills and natural trails.

“It provides a great opportunity for folks to go hiking, birdwatching, walking their dogs, riding bikes along our paved trails and we also have a lot of programs throughout each month on a variety of topics,” said Park Ranger Stephanie Mueller.

As you take your walk, you’ll notice a multitude of birds and species, which change throughout the year.

“We have a variety of habitats we manage for out here and if you go to our ebird checklist, we have over 200 bird species documented at our park. They’re not all here year-round, we do have some migratory stops, some here for the winter and others for the summer,” said Mueller.

Along your walk, you’ll encounter some wetlands along the river as well as a bridge that takes you high over the French Broad River giving you beautiful views of up and down stream.

They even have two ramps to access the river.

“People come year-round to launch their fishing boats, or stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, so it’s a great recreational opportunity for folks,” said Mueller.

The trails and river aren’t the only draw. Conservation and teaching the community are important for the staff.

“We try to do a lot of programs for all ages, but we find that if you give people the opportunity to engage with nature first-hand then they are more likely to want to do their part and protect it as well. So we do programs ranging from birds, to bats, to butterflies and trees,” said Mueller.

Something unique you could also take advantage of is some research opportunities.

“Part of the research that we do, with bird banding with catching the birds and getting hands on with their avian productivity and survivorship,” said Mueller.

The good news is they are always looking for volunteers either it be the general public or from private groups.

And the park could even get bigger. Leaders have some big plans in the making as they look to acquire more islands with an additional 90 acres along the south side of the river.

With it being a short 30 minute drive from downtown Knoxville, it provides a beautiful venue with a peaceful and tranquil feel.