Join the High Country Region for an outing to photograph Elk in the Cataloochee Valley near Cherokee, NC. We will be visiting during the rut season when antlered bulls bugle and fight for domination and the right to breed with cows. We'll meet at 7am at the parking area near the Chapel.
You'll need to purchase a parking pass ($5/day) to display while in the park. You can buy one online or at the Cataloochee Valley Overlook or Oconaluftee Visitors Center. Click here for details.
Bring a long lens for closer views of the action (park regulations require keeping a distance of 50 yards of Elk). A second camera or wider lens is also recommended for capturing dramatic environmental images of the Elk in their surroundings.
We are grateful to High Country Region photographer Lisa Wilmoth for leading this outing!
Be advised that portions of the road leading to the Valley are unpaved and winding, so plan for some extra driving time for safety.
Here's a Google Map link showing the route from a waypoint near Waynesville.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QQhWKUwv1zyRET7K7
For those wishing to stay overnight before and/or after the outing, Waynesville and Maggie Valley are good options.
Questions? Email high-country-coordinator@cnpa.org
Carolinas' Nature Photographers Association
