Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Elk were successfully reintroduced to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 2001. Today, a thriving herd of around 200–240 elk roams the park, primarily concentrated on the North Carolina side.
Best Viewing Locations
Oconaluftee Valley: Located near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Cherokee, NC. This is the most accessible and reliable spot to see large herds grazing in open fields, right off the main road.
Cataloochee Valley: A more remote, historic valley north of Waynesville, NC. It requires driving about 11 miles down a winding gravel road (Cove Creek Road) off I-40, but is a prime spot for viewing.
When to Go
Time of Day: Elk are most active during the early morning and late evening.The Rut (Fall): Mid-September through mid-October is mating season. Bulls gather in large herds and you can hear their iconic "bugle" calls, though they become much more aggressive.
Summer: Early summer is the best time to see newborn calves in the meadows.
GoPro 11 (4K 30fps)
Elk were successfully reintroduced to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 2001. Today, a thriving herd of around 200–240 elk roams the park, primarily concentrated on the North Carolina side.
Best Viewing Locations
Oconaluftee Valley: Located near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Cherokee, NC. This is the most accessible and reliable spot to see large herds grazing in open fields, right off the main road.
Cataloochee Valley: A more remote, historic valley north of Waynesville, NC. It requires driving about 11 miles down a winding gravel road (Cove Creek Road) off I-40, but is a prime spot for viewing.
When to Go
Time of Day: Elk are most active during the early morning and late evening.The Rut (Fall): Mid-September through mid-October is mating season. Bulls gather in large herds and you can hear their iconic "bugle" calls, though they become much more aggressive.
Summer: Early summer is the best time to see newborn calves in the meadows.
GoPro 11 (4K 30fps)
