3 HR Self-Drive Guided UTV Tour: Cataloochee Dirt Roads & Elk

Leave the pavement behind and take the wheel of your own UTV for a backcountry adventure unlike ordinary Smoky Mountain sightseeing tours! Follow an experienced local guide along winding dirt and gravel country roads, surrounded by towering forests, mountain curves, and breathtaking scenery. Experience the excitement of driving through the peaceful Smoky Mountain countryside while your guide leads the way. Discover the rich history of Maggie Valley and Cataloochee, hear fascinating Appalachian stories and Boojum legends, and explore the beauty of this historic mountain community. Keep your eyes open for wild elk roaming Cataloochee's scenic meadows! Enjoy opportunities to observe wildlife and capture unforgettable photographs. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. **The dirt roads are the adventure, the mountains are the reward, and the elk are the unforgettable bonus!**

1. 1

   Maggie Valley

   15 min

   Meet Your Guide & Get Ready! Your adventure begins at Scenic Tours & Adventures in Maggie Valley, North Carolina! Meet your experienced local guide, complete your required waivers, and get familiar with your assigned side-by-side UTV. Your guide will explain the vehicle's controls, safety procedures, and what to expect along the mountain roads. Get ready to take the wheel and experience the Smokies in a whole new way! Drivers must be at least 21 with a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.

2. 2

   Maggie Valley

   Pass by

   Journey to Cataloochee Valley! Your guided adventure begins as you leave Maggie Valley and travel toward beautiful Cataloochee Valley. Follow your guide along scenic mountain roads while learning about the area's early settlers, Appalachian traditions, and fascinating local history. Hear the legendary tale of Boojum, one of Western North Carolina's most mysterious mountain characters, as you enjoy the surrounding forests, countryside, and peaceful mountain scenery.

3. 3

   Cataloochee Valley

   Pass by

   Winding Dirt Roads & Mountain Views! Here's where the backcountry adventure really begins! Leave the pavement behind and take the wheel of your own UTV as you follow your guide along winding dirt and gravel country roads. Navigate scenic mountain curves surrounded by towering hardwood forests, peaceful countryside, and beautiful Smoky Mountain views. Feel the excitement of exploring the mountains from behind the wheel while discovering a quieter side of Western North Carolina. This is a scenic guided driving experience on designated roads, not an extreme off-road obstacle course.

4. 4

   Cataloochee Valley

   1 hour

   Exploring Historic Cataloochee Valley! Step back in time as you discover historic Cataloochee Valley, once home to a thriving Appalachian mountain community. Learn about the families who lived, farmed, and raised their children in this secluded valley before the establishment of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Your guide shares stories of historic churches, old homesteads, and mountain traditions while you enjoy beautiful meadows and peaceful surroundings. View accessible historic landmarks and enjoy opportunities for photographs as permitted by current road and park conditions.

5. 5

   Cataloochee Valley

   30 min

   Elk Viewing & Wildlife Watching! Keep your eyes open as we explore the beautiful mountain meadows of Cataloochee Valley, one of the Smokies' best-known destinations for wild elk viewing! Watch for these magnificent animals grazing in open fields, resting near forest edges, or moving through the surrounding countryside. Your experienced guide will help you look for elk, deer, wild turkeys, and other native wildlife while sharing information about the valley's natural surroundings. Enjoy opportunities for photographs from safe viewing areas. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and guests must maintain a safe distance from all animals.

6. 6

   Maggie Valley

   Pass by

   Scenic Return to Maggie Valley! Your adventure continues as you follow your guide back through the winding mountain roads toward Maggie Valley. Enjoy a different perspective of the beautiful countryside, peaceful forests, and mountain scenery you explored earlier. Take in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the final stretches of your self-drive UTV adventure as your guide leads the way back to Scenic Tours & Adventures. Your experience concludes at our office in Maggie Valley, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Smoky Mountain backroads, historic Cataloochee Valley, and perhaps a wild elk encounter!

• Service animals allowed
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Ages 2 years and up and those requiring car seats will need them

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.