One more place to enjoy near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee
Cataloochee Valley, a secluded spot within the park, offers a serene setting for a leisurely afternoon. You’ll discover numerous well-preserved historic buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries here, remnants of a thriving pioneer community. As you explore, you can visit two churches, a barn, a school, and several homes. To learn about the history of each structure, you can purchase a self-guided auto tour booklet online for just $1.
Don’t miss the chance to observe the valley’s elk herds, which were reintroduced to the park in 2001. For the best opportunity to see them grazing in the valley fields, plan your visit around dawn or dusk. Alongside remarkable wildlife sightings, this part of the park offers hiking trails, fishing in Cataloochee Creek, and a primitive campground. Embrace the tranquility and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty within Cataloochee Valley.
Cataloochee is loved by many for its stunning scenery and the opportunity to see elk wandering around. However, some visitors have expressed their dissatisfaction with the restroom facilities and the challenging road that leads to the valley. To ensure a safe journey, it is advisable to drive carefully due to the road’s winding nature and steep edges. If available, using a four-wheel-drive vehicle is also recommended.