Elk

Not many people get to see Elk in person, since in East TN they were extinct up until a few years ago. A massive restoration project has been in place to re-introduce these large creatures. I am 6'4" and the Elk in this pictures could look me in the eye. Not that I got close enough to do so, but still

There are two places to view Elk currently. The first is in Campbell county at Hatfield Knob. While it is accessable to non 4x4's, I would advise bringing something with some clearance. It is a dirt/gravel road.

The other place to view them is in Cataloochee valley. This road as well is gravel to reach them. Bwe reminded though, these are not the "tame" deer of cades cove. Although you should never approach deer either. Elks during certain times of the year can be extremely aggressive. And they are the largest animal in the park, larger then even the black bears.