Stare-Way to Heaven - Private, easy access, 11 miles to Cataloochee Ski Resort or Cataloochee Valley for Elk Viewing

Our rental is situated near the Cataloochee Valley entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Home to a large herd of elk, it is nestled among some of the most rugged mountains in the southeastern United States. Surrounded by 6000-foot peaks, this isolated valley was one of the largest and most prosperous settlements in Western North Carolina.
 
This is one of the best spots in the park for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The Cataloochee visitors will enjoy viewing deer, elk, turkey, and other forest wildlife. Wildlife watching can be especially fruitful during mornings and evenings in the valley's open fields. A variety of historic buildings have been preserved in the valley, including two churches, a school, and several homes and outbuildings.
 
There are several enjoyable trails to hike in the Cataloochee area. The Cataloochee Divide Trail leads to the scenic Mountain Views of Purchase Gap. Boogerman Trail, a seven-mile loop that takes in groves of old-growth forest, is popular with hikers in the valley. The Little Cataloochee Trail follows an old road past old cabins and a church in the valley as well.
 
To hike the Appalachian Trail, drive to Max Patch, one of North Carolina’s most popular AT hikes. It is on a grassy, bald mountain that’s covered in wildflowers. Catch a gorgeous sunrise, sunset or afternoon picnic on this moderate two mile loop with stunning 360-degree views and seemingly endless sunshine.
 
Waterrock Knob is a must-stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Located at Milepost 451.2, it features breathtaking hiking trails as you travel toward peak at over 6,000 feet.

Plan your vacation to The Great Smoky Mountains in the “Land of the Sky.” This rental is the perfect balance between the secluded mountain life and the exploration of Asheville. Approximately a 30 minute drive into Asheville for exploration of art galleries, dining, breweries and the famous Biltmore Estate.   Historic Downtown Waynesville is approximately a 25 minute drive.

This property is managed by a North Carolina Real Estate Firm.  You will receive a North Carolina Vacation Rental Agreement from our Reservation system that must be signed as part of this agreement and the renter is bound by that Agreement.

Amenities include, fire pit, deck, WiFi  with connection to TV for Netflix and Sling,  parking, washer/dryer, and generator.

This property does NOT allow pets. If pet(s) are brought in,YOU WILL BE CHARGED A $500 PET PENALTY FOR EACH UNAUTHORIZED PET, LIABLE FOR DAMAGE AND SUBJECT TO BEING ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY.

We STRONGLY recommend our guests come prepared for inclement weather. Often mountain roads can become impassable from heavy snowfall. We encourage our guests to be prepared with extra supplies such as food/beverages etc. We do recommend 4WD or AWD for most properties.
Do not attempt to maneuver around mountain roads if you are not familiar with how to operate a vehicle in the snow or a vehicle with tire chains in the snow. Please observe local weather advisement guidelines.

NO fireworks are permitted on the premises as this is a safety and forest fire hazard
 

This house provides the ultimate experience of living in the mountains both indoors and outdoors.  The upper level features a king bed with en suite bathroom, as well as a loft space with foosball table. The main level features a bedroom with a queen bed, a second bedroom with two bunk beds for the kids, full bathroom, kitchen and living room.  The lower level feautures a queen bed in the common open area, sitting area with TV, bathroom and laundry facilities.  Please note with regard to the two bunk-bed units located on the main level, each bunk bed has a maximum weight capacity of 180 pounds.  The indoor fireplace is not permitted to be used.  We have built a beautiful outdoor firepit and seating for our guests!  Bring your S'more supplies!  Firewood can be purchases in bundles at any grocery store in the area.