Duration
Varies depending on stay
Best For
Families • Adventure Seekers • Nature Lovers
Pro Tip
If you're interested in horseback riding, book your spot well in advance, even before your stay, as they often fill up weeks ahead of time, especially during peak season.
About Cataloochee Ranch
Perched at 5,000 feet in the Smoky Mountains, Cataloochee Ranch welcomes guests to experience authentic mountain living in Maggie Valley. This historic working ranch spans 1,000 acres of pristine wilderness, offering both rustic and refined accommodations in the main lodge and private cabins.
The ranch's dining room serves hearty, home-cooked meals family-style, with breakfast and dinner included in your stay. Local favorites include their signature country ham breakfast and slow-cooked mountain trout. The wraparound porch provides the perfect spot to sip morning coffee while watching the sun rise over the mountains.
Summer visitors can cool off in the outdoor pool or try their hand at fly fishing in the ranch's private streams. Horse enthusiasts appreciate the well-maintained stables and guided trail rides through the property's network of mountain paths. During winter, the ranch offers convenient access to Cataloochee Ski Area just minutes away.
The main lodge features a massive stone fireplace, rustic wooden beams, and communal spaces where guests naturally gather to share stories and unwind. Rooms combine mountain charm with modern amenities, though you won't find televisions here – the emphasis is on unplugging and connecting with nature.
The ranch hosts seasonal events throughout the year, from summer barbecues to fall hayrides. While rates vary by season and accommodation type, expect lodge rooms to start around $200 per night, including meals. Most guests stay 3-7 nights to fully experience the ranch's peaceful mountain setting and warm hospitality that's made it a Maggie Valley tradition since 1933.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Guided UTV Tours
Explore the ranch's hundreds of acres with knowledgeable guides like Garrett and Gary, who showcase incredible mountain views and property features.
Chef-Prepared Cuisine
Enjoy outstanding meals with chef-prepared dishes that exceed expectations, from casual BBQs to refined brunch and dinner service.
Mountain View Cabins
Stay in beautifully appointed, cozy cabins offering privacy, spectacular mountain and valley views, and luxury amenities.
Rustic Mountain Setting
Experience the breathtaking elevation, open balds, and long-range views along the southeastern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Best Times to Visit Cataloochee Ranch
Book well in advance for peak seasons (summer and fall foliage).
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cataloochee Ranch a unique mountain getaway?
Founded almost a century ago by the Alexander family, Cataloochee Ranch offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Its high-elevation setting along the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, coupled with chef-prepared cuisine and expert-led activities, creates a memorable experience.
What kind of accommodations are available at the ranch?
Cataloochee Ranch offers both newly restored rooms and cozy cabins, all designed to provide comfort and stunning mountain views.
Are reservations required for dining or activities?
While specific reservation policies aren't detailed, it's highly recommended to inquire about reservations for dining and guided UTV tours, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
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