Catalooche
Of all the spots in the park, Cataloochee has to be our pick of the most
romantic. Rarely crowded, entirely off the beaten path, this cozy cove is
unquestionably the most amiable visit you could ever ask for. Two roads are
available for entry - bad and worse.
The first, starting near Davenport Gap, is the easiest to find and stay on.
However, it is a L O N G (maybe 25 mile) drive on a very narrow winding
country road. If you enjoy driving along at ten miles per hour (views are
nice, though not grand) with not a care in the world, then you will enjoy the
trip. The second road starts from the far eastern-most entry to the park,
North Carolina exit #20 from I-40. It is much shorter, at least as scenic and
better maintained. However, it is so poorly marked that I would consider it
a major accomplishment for anyone to find it their first time in. In any
case, here are my directions: Take the exit off the interstate and head west.
Only about a quarter mile after getting off the interstate, turn sharply right
just before a gas station. Don't expect any road signs. Follow this road for
all you're worth. (If you are sure you are lost, then you are probably on
the right road.) At its terminus, you will finally see road signs, as you
are essentially there.
Cataloochee is not a dazzling spectre of scenic vistas. It is a warm
glade nestled between the wooded arms of gentle ridges. As you finally
arrive at this secluded former settlement, you find a hospitable welcome.
Even without the houses and barns which once filled this valley. It is a
place where you would like to build a cabin and settle down. It is not
too large, not too small. It is a place somehow familiar even for the first
visit.
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