GATOP (God's Answer to Our Prayers)

Monday, April 20, 2026

Leader: Kathy Westbrook   E-mail:kcw1215@yahoo.com  Ph: 865-719-8472

Meeting location: GATOP Garden's parking lot.  2634 Delrose Drive, Knoxville, TN 37914  

Description: GATOP—short for “God’s Answer to Our Prayers”—is a remarkable private arboretum and sculpture garden created by Dr. Alan Solomon, a retired oncologist with a lifelong passion for gardening. Over the past 50 years, Dr. Solomon has carefully developed this 23-acre property into a true garden masterpiece. GATOP is recognized in the Smithsonian Institution’s Archives of American Gardens and is considered one of the region’s premier private collections of rare trees and shrubs, offering breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains and the Holston River. The garden’s peaceful, serene setting provides a restorative experience for visitors. 

Often featured during the Dogwood Arts Festival in April, GATOP showcases a diverse and inspiring landscape, including over 500 conifer species, native plantings, limestone outcrops, water features, and thoughtfully placed sculptures such as the “Graph Knoxville” installation. Visitors will explore a scenic hilltop forest, winding stone paths, and beautifully curated garden spaces. The property is hilly and includes a number of steps.

This field event was inspired by SANP member Gary Pease’s outstanding slideshow presentation at Ron Sentell’s Special Interest Group "Creating and Sharing Slideshows" in 2024. Thanks to their enthusiasm and Dr. Solomon's generosity, SANP members have this special opportunity to visit a truly unique and inspiring location. 

Learning opportunities: This is an excellent location to work on your technique using your walk-around lens, macro and perhaps a zoom lens.   

What to wear: Dress comfortably with good walking shoes; again the property is hilly with a lot of steps. Sunscreen and bug spray may be helpful.

What to bring:  You might want to bring water in addition to your camera gear.

Walking required: The amount of walking you do will be entirely up to you and how much exploring you want to do.  

How to find me:  Gray Acura RDX

Driving directions:  Use Google MAPS for the following address. GATOP Gardens at 2634 Delrose Drive.  Please park in the GATOP parking lot at this address.