Elks are among the many deer species that roamed the Appalachian Mountains in the mid-1800s. As centuries passed, the number of these species started to decline, and this factor made it necessary for North American animal-conservative societies to develop the idea of safeguarding them, resulting in some national parks’ introduction.
As a species of deer family, elks were once considered the subspecies of red deer in Europe. They are the second strongest species in the deer family and enjoy grazing in the open fields with abundant supplies of sedges, grasses, leaves, twigs, etc. You can see them in Cherokee, NC, near Oconaluftee Visitor Center, enjoying their time grazing in the open fields.
Where to See Elks?
Smoky Mountains are beautiful destinations to watch elks in the spring, fall, and summer. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has many species of elks for you to enjoy viewing in their natural habitat. They accompany males while strolling around in the early morning and late afternoon.
Cataloochee Elk
The elk species in the Cataloochee Area National Park were introduced in 2001. The surrounding mountain peaks, at 6000 feet in height, offer safe ground for these species to enjoy grazing openly in fields.
Not many families reside in the area now, and it is considered one of the tourist destinations for visitors who enjoy watching elks.
The Description
Elks are enormous and dangerous animals. They are highly protective of their young ones. The body structure is more significant than that of the black bear, which offers them the advantage of defending against any attack from predators.
While watching them from a distance, it is suggested never to agitate or approach any young ones, as it can make them aggressive.
Viewing in Smokies
You can watch elks in the Smoky Mountain National Park as their natural self. You can get a clear view of these animals in the late afternoons and early mornings as they prefer taking their young ones along during these times of the day. A binocular or a scope can be your eyes while watching them.
Elks are very territorial. While approaching them, you are strictly advised to maintain distance. Any closeness from the outsiders towards them might agitate them and even make them attack you.
Even though they are grazing, they can turn their direction and attack you if they feel you going closer to them.
Other Places to See Elks
Some visitors might be grazing along the Oconaluftee River Trail or near the Cades Cove. The nearby area to watch elks from the national highways is the Cataloochee Area.
Elks love cloudy weather and the days that follow right after the storms. The end of summer days or cloudy summer days are the correct times to watch them enjoying the climate with their herd.
However, you should never cross the distance suggested by you to view them and try to approach them.
Elks were reintroduced to some areas in 2001 and 2002. The Cataloochee area was the only place to enjoy elk viewing before. Now you can find them in many places. Approach with caution whenever you are near one.
