Elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

You will discover elk in two areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Cataloochee area of the park has a moderate size of elk. The Oconaluftee area has a very large herd of elk.

On the Ocanaluftee side, elk are often seen in the area where the Visitor Center is located. Within a half mile area, you will often see them grazing in the pastures and walking in the mountain river. It is common for them to graze along the roadside and even cross the main road in front of passerbys.

You may stop and take pictures of the wildlife, but you must stay at least 50 feet away for your own protection.

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