What is the best time to see elk in Cherokee NC?

In spring, summer and fall the best time to spot elk with the males is in the early morning or late afternoon. In winter only females and calves may be seen in the valleys in the late afternoon.

Can you hunt elk in Cherokee North Carolina?

Currently, elk, like deer, are a protected animal under Cherokee Code (Sec. 113-5a6) and cannot be hunted on tribal lands. Many elk sightings also occur within residential areas, where firearm discharge is prohibited (Sec. 113-5a1).

How many elk are in Cherokee NC?

By 2016, the number has grown to almost 200. Elk at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Herds of up to 30 elk stops traffic, but noone seems to mind. About 52 miles from downtown, allow 1.5 hours to travel.

Where can I see elk in NC?

To see wild elk in North Carolina, head to the Cataloochee Valley area in the southeastern section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Maggie Valley, NC.

When to see elk in Cherokee North Carolina?

Between mid-September and late October, you can hear the distinctive mating call of the bulls, a sound called “bugling.” You may also hear the clash of antlers during elk breeding season, as the bulls challenge each other in a battle for dominance. Elk calves are born between mid-May and mid-July.

When is the rut for elk in Cherokee?

As elk have entered the fall breeding season, known as the rut, from now through Oct. 31, fields in Cataloochee and Oconaluftee, in Cherokee, are closed to the public to protect people and animals, said Julena Campbell, park spokeswoman. People are not allowed to walk in these fields even when elk are not present.

When to see bull elk in the Smoky Mountains?

A bull elk bugles for his female cows to gather in a field at Cataloochee Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During the breeding season the bugling of bull elk echoes through the mountains. Late September and October are the best times to see bull elk with their large racks and hear them bugle for the females.

When do elk come out to graze in NC?

Elk prefer to feed in cool weather, so they usually come out to graze in the early hours of the morning or late in the evening. Please bring your camera and binoculars. Though elk may appear to be gentle, these are wild creatures that should only be viewed from a distance.