Two excellent guided tours showcase the best of Haywood County’s Great Smoky Mountains territory. The standout Smoky Mountain Eco Elk Adventure packs plenty into its 4-hour duration – you’ll track magnificent elk herds, spot local wildlife, and visit thundering 120-foot waterfalls and mountain heritage sites. For adventurous travelers, the Guided Off-Road UTV Wilderness Adventure delivers unforgettable ridge-top views while navigating remote mountain trails. Both tours earn high marks for their expert guides, attention to safety, and authentic mountain experiences. Let’s explore these top tour options in detail.
Key Points
- The Smoky Mountain Eco Elk Adventure offers a 4-hour guided tour that focuses on scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and historical insights in Haywood County, North Carolina.
- The Guided Off-Road UTV Wilderness Adventure provides a 3-hour tour that allows participants to explore the rugged wilderness of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Visitors have a high chance of spotting elk, bears, turkeys, and raptors during the tours, with guides providing information on local fauna and ecology.
- The tours highlight scenic features such as a 120-foot waterfall, an 1836 historic church, and vibrant fall foliage, offering panoramic vistas of the Appalachian landscape.
- The tours have age and licensing requirements, and participants are encouraged to come prepared with proper attire and essentials for a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience.
GUIDED UTV Sunset, Waterfall, & Eco Elk Wilderness Adventure
The UTV-based Smoky Mountain Eco Elk Adventure offers a thrilling off-road journey through the rugged wilderness of Haywood County. Priced at $575 per person, this 4-hour guided tour takes participants on a scenic drive through hidden mountain paths, stopping at a 120-foot waterfall for photos and an 1836 historic church showcasing Appalachian life.
Adventurers have the chance to spot elk that were reintroduced to the area in 2001, while learning about Cherokee legends and Appalachian lore from the knowledgeable guide.
The personalized experience features up to 5 UTVs, providing mile-high views of the towering mountain ranges and vibrant fall foliage. Participants must be 25+ with a valid license and auto insurance to drive, and should arrive 30 minutes early.
The tour isn’t suitable for young children, those with back problems, or motion sickness. Proper attire and essentials are recommended, while certain items like high heels and intoxication are prohibited.
Read our full review: GUIDED UTV Sunset, Waterfall, & Eco Elk Wilderness Adventure Review
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(3 HR.) Guided Off-Road UTV Wilderness Adventure
Scenic Tours’ guided off-road UTV wilderness adventure offers adventurers an exhilarating way to explore the untamed landscapes of Haywood County. Priced at $200 per person, this 3-hour tour takes participants on a thrilling journey through the Great Smoky Mountains, with the chance to encounter diverse wildlife and learn about the region’s rich history.
Riders will start at Scenic Tours, then traverse mile-high ridgelines, taking in jaw-dropping views across 30 miles of valleys and mountains. Along the way, they may spot elk, bears, turkeys, and raptors, while also learning about the Cherokee and Appalachian heritage of the area.
The tour is suitable for individuals, couples, and families, with up to 5 UTVs joining the adventure. Participants must be 21 with a valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance, and arrive 20 minutes prior to departure.
The tour includes UTV rental, fuel, helmets, a cooler, and a knowledgeable guide. Guests are encouraged to bring layers, snacks, and a sense of adventure for an unforgettable off-road experience.
Read our full review: (3 HR.) Guided Off-Road UTV Wilderness Adventure Review
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The Sum Up
This guided UTV tour in Haywood County, North Carolina, offers a thrilling and immersive experience in the region’s natural beauty. Adventurers can explore scenic waterfalls, forests, and witness the majestic elk herd, all while enjoying the convenience of a guided off-road UTV adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an adrenaline-filled excursion, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the wonders of Haywood County’s national park lands.