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3 HR Self-Drive Guided UTV Tour: Cataloochee Dirt Roads & Elk

25 Reviews 4.88 out of 5 stars Based on 25 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 96% of reviewers | Asheville, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

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!**

What's Included

  • Scenic mountain views and photography opportunities
  • UTV safety briefing and operating instructions
  • Historic Cataloochee Valley sightseeing and local storytelling
  • Food and beverages
  • Transportation to and from our Maggie Valley meeting location
  • Personal purchases and souvenirs
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

2961 Soco Road
Maggie Valley, NC 28751, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability.
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Maggie Valley

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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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Maggie Valley (pass by)

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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Cataloochee Valley (pass by)

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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Cataloochee Valley

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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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Cataloochee Valley

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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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Maggie Valley (pass by)

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!
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Ages 2 years and up and those requiring car seats will need them
  • If you are NOT wanting to drive you must call and request a driver
  • All Drivers will need there Driver's license and proof of car insurance

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the 3 HR Self-Drive Guided UTV Tour: Cataloochee Dirt Roads & Elk?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

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Activity code: C-332107P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.88
25 reviews

Average 4.88 out of 5 stars based on 25 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
23
4 stars
1
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Scenic mountain views and photography opportunities
  • UTV safety briefing and operating instructions
  • Historic Cataloochee Valley sightseeing and local storytelling
  • Wild elk and native wildlife viewing opportunities (sightings not guaranteed)
  • Scenic winding dirt and gravel backcountry roads
  • Use of a side-by-side UTV for your reserved group
  • Experienced local guide leading the adventure
  • Fuel for the entire 3-hour guided UTV adventure
  • Guide
  • Guide-driven UTV available upon advance request and confirmation
  • Food and beverages
  • Transportation to and from our Maggie Valley meeting location
  • Personal purchases and souvenirs
  • Gratuities for your guide (optional and appreciated)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Ages 2 years and up and those requiring car seats will need them
  • If you are NOT wanting to drive you must call and request a driver
  • All Drivers will need there Driver's license and proof of car insurance
  • Dogs are allowed in your own UTV. Make sure they are on leash.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 4 travelers

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