Cataloochee Ranch Horseback Riding and Elk Watching

The team visited Cataloochee Ranch and went horseback riding inthe Great Smoky Mountains. The ranch was founded by “Mr. Tom” and “Miss Judy” Alexander in 1933 and was located in the serene and beautiful Cataloochee Valley. We saw several scenic mountain valley views and had a wonderful time in the warm weather. At the high point along our route, we could just make out Max Patch and Mt. Mitchell.

On the way home we drove to Cataloochee Valley in Smokey Mountain National Park to watch the elk herds. We saw bulls, cows, and some older calves. They were introduced into the park in the past couple of years and are very used to people being around.

Elk herd crossing
Sunny meadow view
Bull Elk
Meadow view with elk bull, older calves, and cows.
Cataloochee Ranch Horseback Riding and Elk Watching
Cataloochee Ranch Horseback Riding and Elk Watching
Cataloochee valley view
Cataloochee valley view
Anna and her horse whiskey
Cataloochee mountain view
View of the abandoned ghost town
Blazing the trail
What a beautiful day for a horse ride
Observing the local wildlife: the ruffed grouse

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Dates: May 19, 2010 - November 26, 2010 Project Leader: Calicoe Richir 208-608-6327 crichir@thesca.org 67 Ranger Drive Asheville, NC 28805