Elk Reintroduction in the Smoky Mtns.

Map of Cataloochee Valley

Elk once roamed the mountains of North Carolina and elsewhere in the eastern United States. They were eliminated from this area by over-hunting and loss of habitat. The last elk in North Carolina was believed to have been killed in the late 1700s. This caused the Eastern Elk (Cervus canadensis canadensis) to become extinct. 

Reintroduction of the elk began in 2001 when 25 elk were brought down from the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. In 2002, the park imported another 27 elk from the Alberta area. This reintroduction program was called the Great Elk experiment.
The question remained-could these elk be reintroduced into the ecosystem without throwing off the balance? Yes. It has been a great success! Today, over 150 elk roam the mountains of the Appalachian. Can you see the elk? Yes. The best times to view elk are usually in the early morning and evening around sunset. Many elk can be seen in the Cataloochee Valley near Maggie Valley, NC.

The  valley area is free and parking is ample. 

There are public restrooms, and camping is available.

Warning! Do not approach the elk within 50 yards (150 feet), or any distance that disturbs or displaces elk, which is illegal in the park. Violation of this federal regulation can result in fines and arrest. Look out for warning signs and do not enter fields to view elk. ALWAYS remain by the roadside to view. Never go between a mother and her calf. No selfies allowed within fifty yards!

Here are some pictures from my excursion to the valley. Enjoy!!

source: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/elk.htm