Just down the road from our motel lies one of the best kept secrets in the Smoky Mountains – Cataloochee Valley. Steeped in rich history and wild places, this picturesque valley holds hidden treasures that a lot of folks traveling through Maggie Valley miss. From old homesteads that showcase the area’s Appalachian heritage to scenic mountain views to the awe-inspiring elk herd, there is something wonderful around every bend. Make sure you set aside a day (or more) to wander through the valley and discover the secluded delights of Cataloochee Valley!
Things to do in Cataloochee Valley
Elk Watching
One of the most awe-inspiring activities in Cataloochee Valley is watching the area’s exquisite elk herd as it roams and grazes in the wild.
Several centuries ago, elk were commonplace in this peaceful mountain valley, but they were eliminated due to over-hunting and loss of habitat. It is believed that the last elk in North Carolina was killed in the late 1700s. Thankfully, a group of people from multiple organizations came together with the goal of returning the elk to the Smoky Mountains where they had once roamed so freely. In 2001, 52 elk were reintroduced to the Cataloochee Valley, and now the herd has grown to approximately 200.
Early mornings and late evenings are the best times for elk viewing. Summer is an ideal time to see calves, and September and October are great for the rut (mating season) when bulls gather the cows into larger herds. Just remember that it is illegal to knowingly come within 50 yards of an elk. So, keep your distance and enjoy these stunning animals responsibly from a respectful distance with binoculars.
Motorcycle Rides
Some of the most spectacular motorcycle rides this side of the Mississippi are located in and around the Cataloochee Valley. The most famous of them is the Tail of the Dragon. With 318 curves packed into 11 adrenaline-pumping miles, the Tail of the Dragon on US-129 is America’s number one motorcycle road. With no intersecting roads or driveways to slow you down, you’ll have the ultimate freedom to see what your bike is really made of. The surrounding woodlands of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee National Forest create the perfect scenic woodland backdrop, but let’s be honest – the road is why you’re here. And the road is where you’ll need to keep your focus because these twisty turns and steep climbs and descents are no joke.
Historic Buildings
Before this land became part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataloochee Valley was home to a self-sustaining Appalachian community who farmed the land. Nine buildings still stand, telling the stories of these homesteaders and paying homage to their way of life. You can tour a schoolhouse, a barn, churches, and several homes. Five of the historic buildings sit proudly along the road through the valley, and you can take an invigorating hike down the nearby Little Cataloochee Trail to find the other four. Pick up a Self-guiding Auto Tour booklet from various locations along the way as well as from the Haywood County Visitor’s Center in Maggie Valley. You can also find historical information and exhibits available seasonally at the Palmer House.
Bonus tip: The front porch of the Caldwell House built in 1909 is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch. You can find it near the end of the road past Palmer Chapel and Beech Cove School.
Hiking
A quick trip through the Cataloochee Valley reveals several hiking trails that boast scenic mountain views and breathtaking sights of this peaceful valley.
The Little Cataloochee Trail takes you on a thrilling six-mile one-way hike with plenty of uphill sections that will get your blood pumping. You’ll pass by historic buildings like the Little Cataloochee Baptist Church along the way. Start at the campsite near the Beech Grove School and hike the Pretty Hollow Gap to get to the main trail.
For an easier and faster hike, you can walk the Rough Fork Trail that crosses log foot bridges as it follows along a soothing stream to the Woody House. It’s an easy two-mile round-trip hike, or if you want to keep going, you can add on 5.5 miles to your hike and head up to Polls Gap. The Boogerman Trail, a seven-mile loop that takes you through groves of old-growth forest, is another popular hike.
Fishing
Cataloochee Valley is an angler’s dream with creeks that have been fished by the Cherokee and settlers since the very beginning. Whether you’re fly fishing or using a regular rod and reel, these gorgeous streams are known for the large populations of wild trout. Brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout are some of the most common catches.
You’ll need a North Carolina or Tennessee fishing license to fish anywhere inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can purchase one in any of the Cataloochee Valley towns or online from the state authorities.
Horseback Riding
At the Cataloochee Horse Camp, you’ll find some of the most popular horseback riding trails in the Great Smoky Mountains Park. Enjoy the hypnotic trance of your horse’s ears, bobbing rhythmically in front of you as you stride down the sun-dappled trail. Discover the exhilarating combination of a grand adventure and soothing relaxation as you soak up the gorgeous mountain views and explore the delights of the Cataloochee Valley atop your trusty steed.
Book a room or cabin at the Meadowlark Motel as the perfect home base for your Cataloochee Valley adventure!
Meadowlark owner, Joseph Franklyn McElroy, hosts the Gateway to the Smokies Podcast – in this episode, he talks with special guest, Patrick Womack, about the Cataloochee Valley and its rich history.
