Until the 1700’s, Elk were a common sight in North Carolina and the Appalachian Mountains.

For the past 300 years, they haven’t existed as they were recklessly hunted. But, in 2001 the Great Smoky Mountains National Park began a re-introduction program that has been quite successful and you are able to potentially see Elk living in the wild once again in North Carolina.

One place they tend to stay is in the Cataloochee Valley area of the park, near the historic Palmer Church and Palmer Place House.

These are the biggest animals in the national park, surpassing the black bears in size, so be careful and keep a distance!