Tour Description: Take a step back in time to an American way of life that has been replaced by freeways, technology, and urban migration. Guides paint a picture of a time when we knew all of our neighbors, no one ever locked their doors, and everyone worked together with the hope of crafting a better quality of life.
Situated among some of the tallest peaks in the southeastern United States, this isolated place was once the largest and most affluent settlement in what is now the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Filled with the sights, sounds, and some of the original structures of the past, a walk into the Cataloochee Valley provides a glimpse into the farming communities of the 1800s. Many of the homes, businesses, and community buildings were burned, torn down, or moved when the National Park Service took over in the late 1930s, but plenty buildings remain as a reminder of the people who once thrived here.
Today, the forest is reclaiming the family farms and orchards, but the valley remains one of the most historically important and picturesque areas of the park.
History: The largest of all of the communities within what is now the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataloochee Valley was once an isolated, thriving, self-sufficient community. Families awoke before dawn, put in a hard days work, and gathered to celebrate birth, life, and death in their place of worship. Life in the valley changed very little since its settlement in 1809. In 1928, the U.S. Government sent word that they had plans to buy the entire community to establish the park. Many were devastated. The community they spent over 100 years creating would be abandoned less than ten years later.
WHY GO: Indulge in the quite serenity, and rich history here. The valley is surrounded by 6000-foot peaks that are protected by the National Park, a rarity in a country plagued with over development. You’ll enjoy the open fields, gazing elk, and the informative tales waiting to be discovered in Cataloochee.
NEED TO KNOW: Guides: All tours are lead by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife, history, and culture. Sign up: Reservations are required. Experience: No experience is necessary. Ages: All ages are welcome. Children: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.COST: $62 for each adult. $32 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Four to Five hours of easy to moderate walking with a few short steep hills. Several stops for water, snacks and historical discussions along the way. Tours go as fast as the slowest person and cover a little more than 7 miles.
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE: We limit each tour to 6 to 8 people per guide. Large private groups may exceed 8 people and may require more than one guide.
TOUR TIMES: This tour is offered Monday thru Sunday. Tours depart at 10:00 am & 3:00 pm. Reservations are required!
LOCATIONS: This tour is offered at the following locations Monday thru Sunday:
Cataloochee
RESERVATIONS: All of our tours require advance reservations. Typically, reservations for our morning tours must be made the previous day. Same day reservations for afternoon tours can be made up to two hours prior to the tour time.
To make a reservation, please call (828) 488-6688 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday thru Sunday.
MORE TOURS:We offer a wide variety of walking and hiking excursions for all ages and experience levels. (See all of our tours.)
WEATHER: The Smoky Mountains are known for its varied climate. Some of our tours hike through temperate rainforests where rainfall can reach more than 100 inches per year. As a nature company we believe that part of experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains is to be a part of the elements that create one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Be prepared to get wet any time of year. Tours depart rain or shine.
CELL PHNOE, CAMERAS & ELECTRONICS: Binoculars and cameras are welcome, but keep in mind that inclement conditions are possible.
Other electronics such as IPODs, cellular phones, and other electronics that disrupt the tours are not allowed.
Any participant whose actions disrupt the tour will be removed from the trip without a refund.
WHAT TO BRING: You should bring enough bottled water for each member of your party, 1 quart of water per person is usually sufficient. Guides carry a water filtration system to refill your bottles with fresh water along the way. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended on all tours, and they are essential on our high elevation hikes. A small backpack to carry your belongings is handy. Bring any medications or prescriptions that may be needed during the duration of the tour. If someone in your party is allergic to bee stings you must bring their epi pen.
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Do not bring expensive electronics, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or illegal drugs.
WHAT TO WEAR: You should wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. A sturdy pair of shoes is suitable for most trips, though comfortable hiking boots are recommended for half day and full day hikes. Do not wear a new pair of shoes or boots – your feet will regret it. The Smokys vary in elevation and so do the temperatures. Always be prepared for changes in weather by wearing layers that can be added or removed. Loose fitting pants and long sleeves are good for protecting you from the sun, insects, poison ivy, etc..
OTHER CONCERNS: Wondering about bugs, snakes, bears, or anything else? Click here for a list of commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
