Cataloochee Valley Trip to see Elk
Thursday, September 30th 3:30 p.m.

If you’re interest in history and folk lore, but want to avoid the Smokey Mountain crowds, Cataloochee Valley is the trip to take. It is nestled among some of the most rugged mountains with 6000-foot peaks. This isolated valley was the largest and most prosperous settlement in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park. Once known for its farms and orchards, today Catalooche is one of the most picturesque areas of the park.
Along the road we will stop at a few historic buildings. A lovely historic church, Palmer Chapel and across the road is the Beech Grove School, a historic schoolhouse with the original desks and dusty blackboards. We will also see several homesteads, the Caldwell House and Woody House.
In 2001, elk were released in Cataloochee Valley as part of an experimental program to reintroduce elk to the park. The herd can be seen regularly in the fields of the Valley and this will be our destination. They are more visible in the early morning and evening hours. Other wildlife commonly spotted include bear, deer, and turkey. Hopefully we will see some great wildlife.
Please pack a brown bag supper, drinks and desert will be provided. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket as the evening will be cooler. There is very little walking as you can see the elk from the vehicle.
If you plan to go on this nature trip, please RSVP to Carolyn Link, no later than Monday, September 27th at 418-2352. The bus will pick you up in front of your home beginning at 3:30pm on Thursday, September the 30th.