Planning a mountain getaway to Maggie Valley? In addition to enjoying the cozy comforts of Meadowlark Motel, you’ll find plenty of Smoky Mountain attractions right at our doorstep. Maggie Valley sightseeing is more than just strolling the town – it’s about venturing out to discover waterfalls, wildlife, and quaint mountain towns nearby. If you’re looking for things to do in Maggie Valley, here are seven scenic day trips (all easy drives from Meadowlark) that showcase the best of our region. Each destination offers its own charm – from double waterfalls and historic valleys to cultural Main Streets – and together they’ll fill your days with #MountainGetaway memories. Let’s dive in!
1. Soco Falls (Twin Waterfalls Hidden in the Forest)
Distance from Meadowlark Motel: ~7 miles (about a 10-minute drive).
romanticasheville.com
Tucked between Maggie Valley and the Cherokee Indian Reservation is a true hidden gem: Soco Falls, a stunning double waterfall cascading in tandem down a lush ravine. A short, steep trail from a roadside pull-off leads to a wooden viewing deck for a safe look at the falls. For the more adventurous, ropes along the path can help guide you down to the base. use caution, as the terrain is muddy and slippery (especially after rains). The effort is worth it: the sight and sound of two waterfalls converging is absolutely breathtaking. Bring your camera to capture the misty cascade and maybe a rainbow on a sunny afternoon.
What to Do & Tips: Enjoy a picnic at the observation platform, or carefully descend to the lower vantage point for an up-close experience. Soco Falls is accessible year-round, but flow is highest in spring and after rainfall. In winter, the waterfall sometimes forms beautiful icicles, a magical sight if you’re prepared for cold and slick conditions. This spot is on US-19 toward Cherokee, so it pairs well with a trip to Cherokee or the Blue Ridge Parkway. Fun fact: “Soco” is derived from a Cherokee word for “place of water,” and you’ll feel the spiritual serenity of this place as soon as you hear the rush of #SocoFalls. (Just remember to leave no trace and keep this treasure pristine for the next visitors!)
2. Cataloochee Valley (Elk Watching in Great Smoky Mountains NP)
Distance from Meadowlark Motel: ~25 miles (allow about 1 hour, partly on winding gravel roads.
photo from Romantic Asheville
Step back in time and into nature at Cataloochee Valley, one of the most peaceful corners of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This isolated valley, reached via a scenic, narrow mountain road, is famous for its free-roaming elk herd and historic homesteads. After being absent for 150 years, elk were reintroduced here in 2001, and today seeing these majestic animals graze in the misty meadows is a highlight of any visit. Cataloochee is the park’s most popular place to see elk, especially at dawn or dusk. You might spot bulls with impressive antlers bugling in the fall, or females with young calves in spring. Remember to keep a safe distance – bring binoculars or a zoom lens for great views without disturbing the wildlife.
Aside from elk, Cataloochee Valley offers a glimpse into Appalachian history. Take a leisurely walking tour of the preserved historic structures: a quaint one-room schoolhouse, several weathered farm cabins, and the beautiful white-frame Palmer Chapel. Each tells a story of the pioneer families who lived here over a century ago. There are also hiking trails ranging from easy creekside walks to longer historic routes (like the Boogerman Trail loop) if you’re up for exploring deeper. Even a short stroll along Rough Fork or Caldwell Fork Trail will treat you to serene forests and perhaps a wild turkey or two.
What to Do & Tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the roadside pull-offs while watching elk in the fields. Seasonal tip: Plan to arrive in early morning or late evening for the best elk viewing, as elk are most active during the cool hours (they often graze in the open fields right after sunrise or before sunset). In autumn, the valley comes alive with fall colors and the haunting sound of bull elk bugling during the rut (mating season) – a bucket-list experience for nature lovers. Roads into Cataloochee can be narrow and winding, so drive slowly and carefully. Standard passenger cars can make it fine; just be prepared for a few miles of well-maintained gravel. Bonus: If you’re visiting in winter and heavy snows make Cataloochee inaccessible, you can still get an alpine adventure at the nearby Cataloochee Ski Area, which is just minutes from Meadowlark. The ski slopes aren’t in the valley itself but on a mountaintop above Maggie Valley – offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing with gorgeous mountain vistas. Whether you come for wildlife or winter sports, “Cataloochee” is a must-do during your stay.
3. Wheels Through Time Museum (Vintage Motorcycles & Americana)
Distance from Meadowlark Motel: 0.1 miles – it’s basically next door, an easy 2-minute walk!
photo from Blue Ridge National Heritage
Right behind Meadowlark Motel is one of Maggie Valley’s most famous attractions: Dale’s Wheels Through Time Museum – a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Billed as “The Museum That Runs,” this is home to the world’s premier collection of rare American vintage motorcycles. Step inside and you’ll find over 300 classic bikes spanning dozens of makes and eras, from early 1900s Harley-Davidsons and Indians to one-of-a-kind prototypes you won’t see anywhere else. The museum is packed floor-to-ceiling with automobilia: engines, photos, and 10,000+ pieces of transportation memorabilia (they even have movie legend Steve McQueen’s Cadillac on display!
What makes Wheels Through Time truly special is that almost every machine still runs. The museum’s founder (the late Dale Walksler) ensured that these antique motorcycles are kept in running condition, and staff famously start them up for visitors on a regular basis. There’s nothing quite like hearing a century-old engine roar to life and feeling the rumble of history echo through the halls. It’s an interactive experience that delights gearheads and casual visitors alike, hence the nickname “the museum that runs.”
What to Do & Tips: Give yourself at least an hour (if not more) to wander the exhibits. You’ll find informative displays about the evolution of American motorcycles and the stories behind particular bikes. Keep an eye out for especially rare gems – for example, the museum holds many one-of-a-kind models and championship racing bikes. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live crank-up demonstration where they fire up an old Harley or Indian for an amazed crowd. Seasonal note: The museum is typically open Thursday through Monday (closed Tues/Wed) from spring through late fall – and sometimes closes in winter – so check the hours before you go. Since it’s so close, you can walk over from your room at Meadowlark (no parking worries!). This #WheelsThroughTime Museum is a must-see Smoky Mountain attraction that will transport you back in time, with the sights, sounds, and even smells (oil and gasoline) of American motorcycling history filling an unforgettable afternoon.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Drives (Highest Peaks & Vistas)
Distance from Meadowlark Motel: ~5 miles to Parkway access at Soco Gap.
photo by Shaka Guide
America’s favorite drive is at your doorstep! The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile scenic road known for its sweeping mountain views – passes just a few miles from Meadowlark. In fact, the Parkway’s entrance at Soco Gap is only about a 10-minute drive up US-19. From there, you can cruise either north or south along 46 miles of the Parkway in Haywood County, which happen to be the highest elevation stretches of the entire Parkwayblueridgeparkway.org. Get ready for breathtaking overlooks, easy nature trails, and plenty of spots to pull over and soak in the landscape. This is the kind of leisurely day trip where the journey is the destination.
Heading south (technically westward here) on the Parkway from Soco Gap, you’ll quickly climb above 5,000 feet. One must-stop overlook is Waterrock Knob (Milepost 451.2) – about 12 miles from the gap. Waterrock Knob has a visitor parking area with panoramic viewpoints, picnic tables, and a short but steep 1.2-mile round-trip hike to its summit. At ~6,292 feet elevation, the summit offers 360° views stretching up to 50 miles on clear days. It’s a fantastic spot for either a sunrise or a sunset – you’ll literally be among the clouds with the Appalachian ridges rolling out in every direction. Another popular stop is the Mile High Overlook (just a bit further at MP 455), aptly named for being one mile above sea level. Every overlook has its own unique angle on the Smokies or the neighboring ranges; even a short drive will reveal numerous “wow” moments. Feel free to pick a direction and explore – you really can’t go wrong on the Parkway. If you head north/east from Soco Gap, for instance, you’ll soon reach the towering Richland Balsam area (highest point on the Parkway at MP 431) and views toward Mount Pisgah.
What to Do & Tips: Pack a cooler with snacks or lunch and make a day of scenic hopping – there are no restaurants on the Parkway, so picnicking with a view is the way to go. The Blue Ridge Parkway is known for its abundance of hiking trails right off the road; even a 10-15 minute walk from an overlook can lead you to hidden meadow vistas or quiet woods. Recommended short hikes near Maggie Valley include the Devil’s Courthouse trail (steep half-mile to a rock pinnacle) and Graveyard Fields loop (with waterfalls) if you venture further toward Asheville. Always stay alert for wildlife (you might see wild turkeys, deer, or even a black bear from the safety of your car). Seasonal notes: In fall, this drive is pure magic – the autumn colors draw leaf-peepers from around the world, so expect some traffic on October weekends. In summer, the high elevations offer cooler temperatures (bring a light jacket) and vibrant rhododendron blooms in June. Parts of the Parkway do close in winter due to snow and ice, but you can often still access Soco Gap and drive a portion, or use US-19 as an alternate route to Cherokee if the Parkway is closed. No matter the season, the Blue Ridge Parkway promises an unforgettable ride through the mountains – classic “Maggie Valley sightseeing” at its finest.
5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Oconaluftee Entrance)
Distance from Meadowlark Motel: ~17 miles to park entrance near Cherokee (approx. 30 minutes).
As our guest, you’re within a short drive of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park. The southern gateway to the Smokies at Oconaluftee (near Cherokee, NC) is easily reached from Maggie Valley, just head over Soco Gap and down US-19. In about half an hour, you’ll arrive at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center on US-441, which marks the park boundary. Here, you can grab free maps and chat with park rangers about the best spots to visit. Right behind the visitor center lies the Mountain Farm Museum, an open-air museum of relocated 19th-century log buildings. Wander among the old farmhouse, barn, springhouse, and blacksmith shop to imagine how pioneer families lived off the land over 100 years ago, it’s a beautiful, history-rich setting for a stroll. (Bonus: it’s free and open every day, with self-guided signage). If you have kids along, they’ll love seeing the farm’s heirloom vegetable gardens and perhaps some chickens or pigs, depending on the season, which really bring the past to life.
From Oconaluftee, you have myriad options to enjoy the Smokies. A popular choice is to drive Newfound Gap Road (US-441) north into the park. This scenic highway winds its way 18 miles (climbing about 3,000 feet) to Newfound Gap on the Tennessee state line. Along the way, you can stop at outlooks like Mingus Mill (an 1886 grist mill 2 miles north of the visitor center) or Morton Overlook (for a great sunset view). At Newfound Gap (elevation 5,046′), you’ll find a stunning overlook, the state-line sign (stand with one foot in NC and one in TN!), and access to the Appalachian Trail. Many day-trippers turn around here, but if you’re up for more, another 7-mile spur road leads to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies (6,643′) with an observation tower on top – on a clear day you can see 100 miles. Note that the Clingmans Dome road is closed in winter, and even Newfound Gap itself can be snowy/icy in the colder months, so always check conditions at the visitor center before ascending in winter.
Not up for a mountain drive? No problem – there’s plenty to enjoy right at Oconaluftee. The Oconaluftee River Trail starts at the visitor center and runs 1.5 miles along a pretty river into Cherokee; it’s an easy, pet-friendly walking path (one of the few in the park that allows dogs on leash). Strolling this trail is especially lovely in spring when wildflowers bloom along the riverbank, or in fall with golden leaves floating in the water. Wildlife tip: Keep your eyes peeled in the large meadow adjacent to the visitor center, elk often graze here in the early morning and late evening. It’s not unusual to round a bend and find a dozen elk peacefully munching away at dawn or dusk (sometimes even right by the parking area). As always with wildlife, maintain distance (at least 50 yards) and never approach or feed them – bring a zoom lens for photos of these magnificent creatures in action.
What to Do & Tips: You could combine this day trip with a visit to downtown Cherokee just outside the park, home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Cherokee has several cultural attractions like the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and the Oconaluftee Indian Village if you’re interested in the area’s Native American heritage. And of course, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino is there too for those feeling lucky (or on a rainy day). But even without added stops, the Smokies offer a full day of natural beauty. Seasonal highlights: In summer, the Smokies are lush and cool in the higher elevations (a nice escape from valley heat). In fall, the foliage is spectacular, especially mid-October at the upper elevations – try to go mid-week to avoid peak crowds, if possible. Winter brings tranquility; the park is quiet, and you might catch snow-dusted trees at Newfound Gap (just be flexible with weather). Whenever you go, a journey into Great Smoky Mountains National Park will reward you with fresh air, grand vistas, and that unmistakable Smoky Mountain magic that keeps people coming back year after year.
6. Downtown Waynesville (Shopping, Dining & Mountain Culture)
Distance from Meadowlark Motel: ~9 miles east (about 15 minutes by car).
photo by Romantic Asheville
For a dose of small-town charm, head to Downtown Waynesville, the quaint county seat of Haywood County just down the road from Maggie Valley. Waynesville boasts a picturesque Main Street lined with restored historic buildings and brick sidewalks, creating a delightful browser’s paradise for shoppers and window-shoppers alike. Here you’ll find an array of locally-owned boutiques, art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops – more than 50 downtown shops in total, including the famous Mast General Store which sells everything from old-fashioned candies to outdoor gear. Take your time popping into unique stores like the Corner Station (for home decor and gifts) or the taproom of Boojum Brewery for a craft beer brewed right in Waynesville.
When hunger strikes, downtown Waynesville has you covered with delicious eateries. You can savor North Carolina BBQ, farm-to-table fare, or a simple sandwich from one of the cafes or bakeries (don’t miss the Smoky Mountain Sub Shop for a quick bite, or the Patio bistro for al fresco dining). Many restaurants prioritize local ingredients, giving you a real taste of the Smokies. And save room for dessert – the hand-dipped ice cream at Jack the Dipper is a local favorite, as are the baked goods at City Bakery. As you stroll, you’ll also notice several art galleries and studios, Waynesville has a thriving arts scene, so feel free to wander into galleries showcasing Appalachian artisans (pottery, paintings, and more). The whole downtown has a friendly, walkable vibe that makes for a relaxing afternoon or evening out.
What to Do & Tips: Check the event calendar, because Waynesville hosts wonderful street festivals and cultural events throughout the year. In summer (usually July), the town is home to Folkmoot USA, an international folk music and dance festival. During Folkmoot, you’ll see downtown come alive with performers from around the world, a street festival features live international music and dance right on Main Street, creating the ultimate cultural exchange. It’s an amazing chance to experience global traditions in a small-town setting. In the fall (mid-October), Waynesville’s annual Apple Harvest Festival celebrates the local harvest with apple cider, hot apple pies, mountain music, craft booths and more, all along a festively decorated Main Street. And in early December, the town’s “Night Before Christmas” event brings out carolers, horse-drawn wagons, and shopkeepers with extended hours – the whole downtown twinkles with holiday lights and old-fashioned yuletide cheer. If you happen to visit during these events, you’re in for a treat (and if not, downtown is charming any day of the year). Parking is free and fairly easy to find (there’s even a public parking deck one block off Main). So go ahead and enjoy a leisurely day in Waynesville – sip a coffee, chat with friendly shop owners, and soak up the hospitality of an authentic mountain town.
7. Lake Junaluska (Peaceful Lakeside Retreat)
Distance from Meadowlark Motel: ~8–9 miles (about 15 minutes, just beyond Waynesville).
photo by Romantic Asheville
For a change of pace, spend a tranquil day at Lake Junaluska, a scenic mountain lake that has been a beloved retreat for over a century. Lake Junaluska is actually a community and conference center built around a 200-acre lake, and it welcomes the public to enjoy its serene natural beauty. Upon arriving, you’ll be greeted by views of calm blue waters framed by rolling hills and well-tended gardens, a truly peaceful setting that invites you to relax and recharge. A paved walking trail (2.3 miles) circles the lake, perfect for a morning jog or an afternoon stroll. As you walk, you’ll pass points of interest like the Rose Walk, where vibrant rose gardens and seasonal blooms add color and fragrance to the lakeshore, and the historic Inspiration Point overlook, which offers a postcard-worthy view of the lake against a backdrop of Great Smoky Mountains peaks. Benches dot the path, so you can sit and watch ducks and swans glide by.
Lake Junaluska also offers plenty of outdoor recreation. You can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddle-board from the lake’s boat dock (open in summer) to paddle the gentle waters, a fun way to cool off on a hot day. Fishing is allowed with a NC fishing license; the lake is home to bass, catfish, and others (there’s a popular fishing spot near the dam). There are also picnic tables and a small beach area by the Junaluska Pool, where kids often skip stones or wade. Don’t miss walking up to the inspirational Cross on the hill – this large white cross is lit up at night and has become a symbol of Lake Junaluska. From its hillside perch, you get a panoramic view of the lake and mountains (sunsets from here are magnificent). If you’re interested in history, you could pop into the SEJ Heritage Center (a small museum about the lake’s founding and the Methodist heritage here) or simply read the historical markers around the grounds. But the main draw is simply unwinding in nature: people come to Lake J to slow down, breathe the fresh air, and perhaps swing in a lakeside hammock or have an ice cream cone by the water.
What to Do & Tips: A popular itinerary is to walk the Lake Junaluska loop trail, stopping for ice cream or a cold drink at the Junaluska gift shop or coffee shop midway. Along the route, you’ll encounter the Stuart Auditorium, an open-air auditorium that has hosted spiritual gatherings and concerts for decades – peek inside if it’s open, as it’s quite historic. The gardens around the auditorium and along the lake are lovingly maintained, offering bursts of color from spring through fall (rhododendrons, azaleas, and of course the roses). If you visit around Christmastime, Lake Junaluska decorates with thousands of lights reflecting on the water, a drive or walk around the illuminated lake is magical on a December evening. Summertime sometimes brings outdoor concerts or Sunday evening worship by the lake, which anyone can quietly attend to enjoy the music. Local tip: Stop by Junaluska’s Corneille Bryan Native Garden (near the Lambuth Inn) – this hidden little garden showcases native Appalachian plants and is free to wander. Whenever you visit, Lake Junaluska offers a rejuvenating escape into nature’s beauty, just minutes from Maggie Valley. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, have a picnic, and maybe even catch up on a good book by the shore, the epitome of a peaceful mountain #MaggieValley day trip.
After experiencing these seven day trips, you’ll understand why Maggie Valley is such a special place to stay. From waterfalls and wildlife to museums and mountain towns, there’s something new to explore every day – all within a stone’s throw of Meadowlark Motel. In the evenings, you can return to our welcoming motel to relax by the creek, share stories around the fire pit, or enjoy live music and a craft cocktail at our pavilion. We hope this guide inspires you to make the most of your visit and to see the Smokies like a local. Meadowlark Motel is proud to be your home base for adventure, and we’re always happy to help with directions or additional recommendations – just ask! Book your stay with us and get ready for an unforgettable getaway filled with natural beauty, culture, and fun. We can’t wait to welcome you to the mountains for the vacation of a lifetime – see you soon in Maggie Valley!
