Western Carolina Outdoor Adventures
CATALOOCHE VALLEY
Catalochee is among the best places in the Smokies to view wildlife. The area is best known for elk, which were reintroduced in the Cataloochee Valley in 2001 and 2002. More information about the elk can be found on the National Park web site. Deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and red wolves are also commonly seen here. Early morning and evening are the best times to see wildlife.
]The valley is one of the most beautiful areas in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is know for abundant wildlife, especially elk, beautiful mountain scenery, and historic buildings. It is an isolated valley surrounded by some of the most rugged mountains in the southeastern United States. The area was once a thriving farming community. Some of the historic structures, such as cabins, a school, churches, and a barn, have been preserved. Five of the historic buildings are located along the road. Four others are reachable by a short walk on the Little Cataloochee trail
-
In September the elk are very active because this is mating season.
-
The Fall colors are beautiful in Cataloochee in mid to late October. While much of the Smokies are very busy at this time, Cataloochee is not nearly as crowded.
