Cataloochee Valley

Charlotte featuring a river or creek and forest scenes
Charlotte which includes forest scenes
Charlotte which includes autumn leaves, a river or creek and forest scenes
Charlotte which includes a house, tranquil scenes and forest scenes
Cataloochee Valley featuring a house and a park


Spot elk and visit historic buildings while camping, driving and hiking in the tranquil countryside of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Be inspired in the Cataloochee Valley, among the most picturesque and secluded regions of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cataloochee Valley spreads across the park’s eastern section with a dazzling natural landscape of 6,000-foot-tall (1,800-meter) mountains, rivers, streams and wildflower meadows. Drive along scenic roads to panoramic overlooks, hike trails to centuries-old landmarks and observe an abundance of wildlife.

A major highlight of the valley is the chance to see elk grazing in the fields. The optimal times are at daybreak and in the hours leading up to sunset. Come in spring to witness the calving season, in summer to see large free-roaming herds and in fall for the mating season. Watch for other wildlife such as black bears, deer, wild turkeys and wolves. Remember to stay at a safe distance when observing any animals.

Scattered around the valley are nine well-preserved landmarks, which provide a glimpse of the region’s 20th-century farming lifestyle and early tourism trade. Over half of these, including Hiram Caldwell House, Palmer Chapel and Palmer House, are accessible via the Cataloochee Entrance Road. Find the remainder by hiking the Little Cataloochee Trail.

An alternative hike is the Cataloochee Fork Trail, a 6-mile (10-kilometer) path that crosses sprawling grassland and streams. Follow the Boogerman Trail deep into the heart of primeval forest. Get a permit to go trout fishing at Cataloochee Creek. Be sure to visit Cataloochee Valley Overlook for one of the best views of the colorful valley.

The valley is about a 1-hour drive west of Asheville and a 2-hour drive east of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The main valley road is narrow and features switchbacks so be prepared to stop to allow traffic to pass by. The road is often closed during periods of heavy snowfall.

Spring, summer and fall are the best times of the year to visit Cataloochee Valley. Tent and motorhome camping is allowed at designated campsites from mid-March to late October. Enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for free.

Popular places to visit


Top Cataloochee Valley Hotel Deals

Quality Inn & Suites Maggie Valley - Cherokee Area
Quality Inn & Suites Maggie Valley - Cherokee Area
2.5 out of 5
3777 Soco Road Rt 19, Maggie Valley, NC
Quality Inn & Suites Maggie Valley - Cherokee Area
Jonathan Creek Inn and Villas
Jonathan Creek Inn and Villas
2 out of 5
4324 Soco Rd, Maggie Valley, NC
Jonathan Creek Inn and Villas
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Beautiful view of the beach with palm trees

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Members save 30%+ on selected hotels until 4 Dec (property time) with our Black Friday deals. Stay by 15 Dec 2025.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.