In part two of this series The Newfound Gap Overlook! we explored one of the high overlooks in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In this chapter, we will visit the beautiful Cataloochee Valley in the Southeast quadrant of the park. And although it takes a little effort to get there, the rewards more than justify the nerve-testing drive along the narrow and windy roads that lead there.
Cataloochee is one of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's hidden treasures.
But once you cross the divide and begin to descend into the valley, you leave the modern world behind and go back in time to the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. You will encounter open fields, historic structures and graveyards, and extraordinary wildlife viewing!
You first stop should be at the Cataloochee Overlook. From here you can see the entire valley, and the ridges of the Smoky Mountains in the distance.
As you continue down the road, there are several historic buildings that can be approached by auto. They are the Palmer House, Palmer Chapel, The Caldwell house and barn, and the Beech Grove School. All of these building are accessible with a short and level walk.
Beyond the school is the huge open meadow that is the best spot in the park for elk viewing. The elk herd that was reintroduced into the Smokies in the 1990's congregate here and delight the visitors that come to see them.
Early morning or late evening is the best time for elk viewing. You can easily do this from the comfort of your car or better yet, sitting on the tailgate of a pickup truck. There is nothing quite like the sound of a bull elk bugling. It's an amazing thing to hear!
To get there take exit 20 of I-40 (U.S. 276 Cove Creek / Waynesville) and look for Cove Creek Road just south of the interchange. From here, you will take Cove Creek Road for a continuous climb over the divide.
The higher you get, the more narrow the road becomes, until it is a single lane gravel road that winds along a precipice. Drive slowly and carefully here, especially around the blind curves. Continue straight until you enter the park and eventually the road is paved again!
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Looks wonderful, what a terrific place to visit for all! Thanks for the post
Wonderful Localism post Richard for one of the most beautiful areas east of the Rocky Mountains.
This is still a place that I plan to visit in the future. If nothing else to catch a cup of Java with you!
I like the rural church image! Way to show the area without making eveyrone read to find it, picture it Richard!
We love the Smokies - even it it is home to one of the most terrifying rafting trips I have ever been on! Great post.
I spent many days of my youth in the Smokey Mountains. The beauty is inspiring and at times unbelievable.
Richard,
Thanks for a great job of inspiring us to remember we have so many great areas in our country to see and appreciate. The Smokey Mountains are unbelievably beautiful. Thanks for sharing your wonderful pictures.
Richard you make me want to visit your beautiful area! This looks just spectacular....thank you for sharing this with us.
Richard, your pics are amazing...like always! I love the Smokey's. My wife and I honeymooned there.
PS - Look for the email I sent you!
Melissa...
And the best part is that this area is accessible! Thanks for the comment!
Lenn...
It truly is! Thanks as always!
Bill...
I'm looking forward to it! THX
Richard, thanks for such a beautiful post! I went in and read part one after seeing part two! It is simply gorgeous! Since i live in NC, I'd like to go there. Where would be the best place to stay, and where should the trip begin (what do I plug into my GPS?)
I love getting up there. I've used the Park as a pass through on the way north a few times... love it in the winter (as long as the road is open)
Your pictures remind me that fall is just around the corner!
Richard,
Thanks for the memories! I haven't been there for about 20 years, but we had a great trip as a family through the mountains.
Brian
Hi Richard -- As an avid local hiker, I loved reading your post, and as I have commented many times before, your photography skills are incredible -- not to mention your writing abilities. I really enjoy reading your posts.
I know you are getting the itch with the laves nearing the color changes that you want. I look forward to more of these.
I really enjoyed this post today Richard. It looks like a wonderful place. I'd love to visit someday.
Patricia Aulson/portsmouth nh homes
This has been a wonderful series to highlight a fantastic area my friend. I have really enjoyed it and congrats on the feature.
I have photos of me and my backpacking buddies in the same overlook you showed in your photo.
We've spent many peaceful and tranquil days and nights in the back country; no cell phones or computers for miles. Marvelous and relaxing.
I especially like the Cataloochee Valley because it's used far less than most other areas of the park.
We enjoyed a trip to this area earlier this year.
Here's Why they Call Them "Smokey"
Gorgeous. God did good over there...
Richard,
I am thinking I may need a tour guide, are you up to the task? Very nice job my friend and thank you for the help.
Hi Richard, that one lane gravel road at the top sounds scary. I hope to visit there someday.