The Great Smoky Mountains National Park saw over 12 million visitors in 2020; that’s almost four times the attendance recorded in America’s number two ranked national park (Yellowstone). Even still, in spite of the scores of people who visit each year, there still remains a very remote area within the park that’s relatively untouched by man.

The Cataloochee Valley in North Carolina is absolutely breathtaking.
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With a mixture of wide open spaces on the valley floor and a forested wonderland scored with hiking trails, the valley offers chance after chance to reconnect with Mother Nature.
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Long haul trail hikes carry visitors deep under the canopy of trees and past old homesteads, waterfalls, churches, a school house, and more.
TripAdvisor/Amber

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During the summer, waterfalls and their plunge pools are thoroughly enjoyed by swimsuit-clad visitors eager to dip their toes in the cool mountain waters that meander through the valley.
alltrails/Kevin Craythorne
The Mouse Creek Falls trail is a great example. This four-mile hike leads to a gorgeous emerald swimming hole that's perfect for a summer adventure.
alltrails/Nadine Kocanjer
Other popular activities in the Cataloochee Valley include elk spotting, fishing, and camping.
TripAdvisor/Laura A
Have you discovered the North Carolina goodness in the Cataloochee Valley yet?
TripAdvisor/Ashley E

Whatever you do in the Cataloochee Valley, you’re sure to add this remote spot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to your list of favorite spots to return to again and again in the Tar Heel State.

For more ways to enjoy the Cataloochee Valley, take this trail hike to a remote church found in the woods, and set aside some time to sit and watch the elk in the valley!

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Cataloochee, NC 28785, USA