Springtime Hiking and Wildlife in Western North Carolina
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Loading ...Spring’s moderate temperatures and blossoming flowers make it a perfect time of year to go hiking in the scenic areas surrounding Maggie Valley Club & Resort. For a change of pace from the golf course, check out these popular hiking and wildlife viewing spots:
* Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Oconaluftee Visitors Center entrance in Cherokee, NC is an easy 30 minute drive from Maggie Valley. Once there, you’ll find hundreds of miles of hiking trails. The park itself is over 800 square miles, so many visitors like to drive and see the scenery in addition to hiking. Whether you’d like to see waterfalls, wildlife or amazing views, there’s a route for you. Throughout the park there are also historic farm sites, gristmills, churches and schools. The Maggie Valley Club & Resort Activities Director will have maps and information about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park available and can help you plan your visit.
* Elk Viewing at Cataloochee Valley
This is actually a side entrance to the Smoky Mountain National Park known as a prime spot for elk watching. You’ll have to plan your visit around the herd’s grazing schedule, because the elk won’t wait around for you when they’re through! This spot offers a terrific view of the open fields where the elk herds tend to graze at sunrise and sunset throughout the year. Elk have been in the Park since 2001when an initial herd of only 21 was introduced to the area. That herd thrived, and they’re closely monitored via radio collars. Don’t try to get too close though- it’s actually illegal to come any closer than 150 feet from the elk (as well as bears and other Park wildlife). Once the elk have moved on, there are many hiking trails surrounding their grazing areafor you to explore.
* Lake Junaluska
Lake Junaluska, located in Waynesville, is only a 5 minute drive from Maggie Valley Club & Resort. The Lake, with its beautiful landscaping, butterfly gardens and quaint gazebos, is beautiful in the springtime and features 2 walking trails, one that logs 2.6 miles, and a slightly longer trail of 3.7 miles. Both loop around the lake, and provide an easy walk with plenty to see.
If you have questions about hiking or other activities, see the Director of Activities at Maggie Valley Club & Resort. She is an area expert and will be happy to discuss your options with you.
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