Sequatchie Valley Institute
at Moonshadow!
information upon arrival
To begin, this is a nature reserve, and we ask that it be treated with due respect. Please be considerate to the grounds and to the people & resident wildlife (frogs, lizards, etc.) you encounter. There is much to learn from them!
One might come across not-so-friendly snakes. Walk carefully, with your eyes on the alert
Look for the bridge to the right of the creek entrance to cross when the water is flowing!
Upon arrival (arriving before dark simplifies things), we encourage you to park before crossing the creek, as the water level may be too high for many vehicles to cross, and can rise up after rains somewhat suddenly, delaying travel.
If the lower lot is full, the creek is dry, and no storms are expected: It is permissible to park in the large forest glade parking area (about 0.3 mi. up the hill) which accommodates most vehicles.
Those with prior permission and those who are either very adventurous and/or use an SUV may drive all the way up the rough, steeply-inclined, and sometimes slick, one-lane driving path leading up to Sequatchie Valley Institute HQ.
Complimentary shuttles up and down the slope for rides and/or gear are available for all. Look or ask for the “Gear Teleportation Stations” located at registration/check-in for help getting tents, packs, and food up to Moonshadow.
There is to be NO SMOKING IN, OR NEAR, ANY STRUCTURE, including main structures, outbuildings, huts, and others.
There will be a designated smoking area (complete with butt-disposal) set-up at every event. NO CANDLES, kerosene lamps, or any other source of open flame is to be kindled without the express permission and supervision of a resident.
Current Events
Liquidambar Art Gallery Holiday Opening Reception
Holiday Opening Reception at Sequatchie Valley Institute where Nature and Art Converge Sun. Dec. 18, 11-7 CSTCross the creek to experience the Gallery and studios located in the magical heart of the Sequatchie Valley, featuring NEW WORK by our local artists, including...
Liquidambar Art Gallery and SVI Trails Open Soon!
Creek @ S.V.I. Entrance The creek will be flowing beautifully and the gallery is full of fabulous art, from functional pottery to kaleidoscopes, books on sustainable living, and paintings. Check-in/registration for events is at the large art desk on the left side of...
What to bring
Good, sturdy rubber or hiking boots are invaluable for traversing rough, wet, rocky, muddy, and/or weedy areas.
Due to sometimes-thriving insect populations — long sleeves and pants is the way to go! You may want to bring bug spray. We ask that only eco-/body-friendly bug spray be used on the premises.
Bedding — even if you didn’t plan to spend the night, be prepared. Bring your pillow, a camping pad, a bedroll, a towel, and a small tent (tent optional for short visits; there are open-air covered areas you can sleep under).
In the winter: Bring warm clothes! Better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
What not to bring
PETS. We have gardens and domestic animals, and we are a nature reserve with protected wildlife. Even the best pet can create unpleasant and unnecessary problems. Thank you so much for your consideration.
Extraneous things that use electricity. We have minimal excess solar power, and we appreciate conservation.
For anything that you plan to leave here — we request that you take ALL your garbage and recycling home with you. Carrying an ice chest of empty bottles down the trail can be a hassle.
ACCOMMODATIONS
For the most part – unless otherwise noted for particular events – there will not be assigned caretakers, and children must have the supervision of their parent or legal guardian at all times while visiting Sequatchie Valley Institute.
We ask that individuals do not shower or use the flush toilet in the family house.
We have two lovely, well-maintained outdoor compost toilets. If you have any questions or reservations, a resident will be more than happy to share more education. Follow the signs near Moonshadow to find them, or ask a resident.
Acquire a resident’s input before maintaining and/or adjusting any fire. Our open fireplaces can be dangerous and are considered entirely off-limits for minors. Never place anything flammable near the fires. DO NOT put any bedding near the hearths.
Food & Water
For gatherings defined as potlucks: Plan to bring food to share — This may be coordinated beforehand, so as to avoid the catastrophic outcome of having 50 bags of chips and no dip.
It is helpful for all visitors to keep up with their treasured leftover containers – and not-so-treasured refuse.
If you wish to maintain cold-temperature items, be sure to bring a cooler with ice.
Our water comes from a spring, and is not only limited but has also not been through rigorous methods of testing clearing it for wide consumption. Even though we feel safe drinking it daily, there are many who may want to bring their own water bottle.
Contact
Phone
O: (423) 949-4598
O: (423) 949-5922
C: (404) 698-5444
sequatchievalleyinstitute@gmail.com
Address
1233 Cartwright Loop, Whitwell, TN, 37397
Let us know
If you experience any difficulties or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
501(c)(3) Non-profit
Sequatchie Valley Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization with our funding coming completely from your tax-deductible donations.
We appreciate your generosity to help keep our wonderful programs and facilities available for everyone.
Volunteers help our world go ’round, for sure! There are always many things to be done at Moonshadow and S.V.I., and
we appreciate good help.
Check out our Friends of Sequatchie Valley Institute Facebook group, or ask us at an event, to find out how you can get involved!