03/27/2025
THE VALLEY THAT NEEDS US
CATALOOCHEE IS CALLING — WILL WE ANSWER?
Maggie Valley, NC – March 2025
If you’ve ever stood in Cataloochee Valley at dawn...
Where the mist moves like breath across the meadow,
And a bull elk lifts his antlers to the morning sky,
Where the hush of the forest speaks louder than words,
And the past lingers gently in the creak of old cabin wood...
Then you know.
You don’t just see Cataloochee.
You feel it.
It’s the kind of place that settles into your soul.
The kind you tell stories about — or hold quietly in your heart.
It’s where wildlife roams free, where generations have come to reconnect,
And where the land still whispers the language of the Smokies.
Cataloochee isn’t just part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park —
It’s a sacred thread woven into the story of Maggie Valley and all of Haywood County.
But today, that valley — so full of peace, power, and purpose — is quieter than it should be.
And we have to ask: Why?
💔 AFTER THE STORMS, THE SILENCE
Cataloochee Valley did reopen after the pandemic. Volunteers — the very heart of park stewardship — returned to welcome guests, share history, and help protect the elk and historic sites.
Then came the first storm.
It caused significant damage, and the valley was closed for nearly a year. When it reopened, volunteers hoped to return — but they were told not to. The official reason: loss of radio communication from Mount Sterling. Without a way to stay in touch, volunteers were sidelined — and have not been brought back in over three years.
During that time, even though the valley was open to visitors, the lack of volunteer presence created serious challenges:
• Guests were feeding elk, unaware of the risks.
• Many were getting too close for photographs.
• There was no one on-site to offer safety guidance or education.
Then came Hurricane Helene, which caused even greater destruction to roads and infrastructure. Since then, Cataloochee has remained closed, with no official update from the National Park Service on reopening or the return of volunteers.
Meanwhile, in Cherokee, volunteers are used daily, and Cades Cove receives consistent support. But here in Maggie Valley, we're left in the dark — and feeling forgotten.
💼 HOW THIS HURTS TOURISM IN MAGGIE VALLEY
Cataloochee Valley isn’t just a scenic destination — it’s a lifeline for Maggie Valley’s tourism.
Visitors travel here from across the country to see the elk, explore the historic cabins, and drive through the unspoiled valley. Many guests choose to stay in Maggie Valley because of its close proximity to Cataloochee. It's one of the few places where they can wake up in a cozy cabin or hotel and within minutes be immersed in wild nature and history.
When Cataloochee is closed, or left unsupported:
• Tourists cancel or shorten their trips
• Lodging stays decline
• Restaurants and shops see fewer customers
• Jeep tours, photographers, outfitters, and family-oriented attractions miss out on major business
This valley is a central part of what makes Maggie Valley special. Without it fully open and supported, the ripple effect across our small town is real. We lose not just income, but connection and momentum — the very things that help Maggie thrive as a year-round mountain destination.
🗣 A REGIONAL CALL TO ACTION
This affects all of Haywood County, from Maggie Valley to Waynesville, Clyde, and beyond. It’s time for everyone — from park officials to local leaders — to step forward and advocate for Cataloochee’s future.
Let’s ask:
• Is the National Park Service working on a clear plan to restore and reopen Cataloochee Valley?
• Why have volunteers not returned, even though they are trained, experienced, and ready?
• Are the TDA, Chamber of Commerce, and town governments actively engaged in this discussion?
• And how can we — the people who care deeply — come together and help?
✅ WHAT YOU CAN DO — TODAY
Whether you’re a business owner, resident, or visitor who believes in protecting what matters:
📍 Post this message in your business or shop
📲 Share it on social media — tag your favorite spots and leaders
📞 Call your town leaders, the Chamber, and the TDA
📧 Email the National Park Service and ask for a public update
🦌 Encourage responsible wildlife tourism and education
🤝 Support the return of volunteers and staffing in Cataloochee
Tourism in Maggie Valley and Waynesville was deeply impacted by Hurricane Helene. Businesses, restaurants, and shops have felt the weight of it.
We need you now more than ever.
Please come visit.
Please stay.
Support our local shops, restaurants, lodges, and outfitters.
Let us show you the beauty, resilience, and warmth of this mountain community — even while we work to bring Cataloochee back.
Cataloochee Valley is still here.
The elk are still grazing.
The cabins are still standing.
The story is still waiting to be told.
But it won’t wait forever.
Let’s not let this valley — our valley — be forgotten.
Let’s speak up, show up, and stand together.
Cataloochee is calling. Will we answer?
