Cataloochee Valley - POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER hiking, historic buildings, etc.

We will take I-40 west to exit 20 (Waynesville) and stop at the Exxon station there to gather in the folks from Waynesville area. Then we will drive up to Cataloochee Valley (in the GSMNP), to the old Palmer Chapel and the old Beech Grove School for photos. We will hike 4.3 miles round trip on the Palmer Creek and Pretty Hollow Gap trails, stopping at back country campsite 39 for lunch/snacks/rest. We will then return to the valley and visit the old Caldwell house for pictures. By then it should be late enough in the afternoon for the elk to have come out to graze. They are magnificent animals and we can hope for some picture opportunities.

Because it is in the GSMNP, dogs are not permitted.

Bring plenty of water, lunch and snacks, rain gear recommended, poles if you’ve got ‘em, and anything else you might need, including any allergy medicines and sunscreen.

Please pay your driver $5 for their work and expenses.