Cataloochee Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Reviewed Jul. 17, 2018

Nature and History; hiking, fishing, birding, photography,horse trails,elk

So much to see. It’s easy to spend a couple of days exploring the historical sites, walking trails, watching the elk herd (especially during the fall rut period) and admiring the natural beauty of the Great Smokey Mountains with less than the usual crowds. This is because access to the campground requires a challenging drive down a one lane dirt road. Believe me, you don’t want to try this in wet conditions.

But the trip is well worth the challenge. The campsite is a loop in the pines along a creek. It’s a 15 minute walk to the pastures where you can see the elk herd in the early morning or at dusk. Get up before dawn to watch the sun rise over the mountain and streak across the meadow.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • A large buck going rounding up one his cows.
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  • The smaller buck in foreground wouldn’t think of challenging the larger one.
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  • Look at that rack!
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  • The buck keeps his harem together during rutting season.
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  • Listen closely to hear the elk call.
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