3 HR Self-Drive Guided UTV Tour: Cataloochee Dirt Roads & Elk
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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!**
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 3 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Scenic mountain views and photography opportunities
- UTV safety briefing and operating instructions
- Guide-driven UTV available upon advance request and confirmation
- Historic Cataloochee Valley sightseeing and local storytelling
- Wild elk and native wildlife viewing opportunities (sightings not guaranteed)
- Guide
- Fuel for the entire 3-hour guided UTV adventure
- Scenic winding dirt and gravel backcountry roads
- Experienced local guide leading the adventure
- Use of a side-by-side UTV for your reserved group
Not included
- Food and beverages
- Gratuities for your guide (optional and appreciated)
- Transportation to and from our Maggie Valley meeting location
- Personal purchases and souvenirs
Itinerary
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Stop 1
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.
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Stop 2
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.
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Stop 3
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.
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Stop 4
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.
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Stop 5
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.
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Stop 6
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!
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
You must arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time. This is necessary in order to complete paperwork and operation instructions.
We are not able to wait for late arrivals and leave promptly as scheduled. We do not offer refunds for lateness or no-shows. We do offer reschedules when available.
Cancellation & confirmation
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- 0% refund if cancelled at least 0 day(s) before
- May be cancelled for bad weather
- May be cancelled if there are not enough travelers
Confirmation within 24 hours
The supplier reviews your request and usually confirms within 24 hours.
From $212.50 per person
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
