Elk Viewing Photo Tour in Great Smoky Mountains
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as no hiking is required
Overview
Join a half-day elk viewing photo tour near Asheville with guaranteed sightings and expert photography tips—no hiking required!
Elk Viewing Photo Tour
$135 - $155 per person | 3.5-Hour Trip | All Levels Welcome!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling Half-Day Elk Viewing Photo Tour near Asheville, where expert guides ensure a 100% success rate in spotting elk in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy a unique opportunity to capture breathtaking images while receiving photography tips, all without the hassle of hiking. Pickup is conveniently included!
Capture stunning images that you're passionate about.
Pick-up offered: we pick you up!
Rates
One Person: $155 Two or more people: $135/person There is a two-person minimum for Elk Tours during the fall season
Ages 10+
Duration
3.5 hours
These tours typically begin three hours prior to sunset. Sunrise tours are optional and somewhat encouraged during the month of October to avoid crowds.
About
Need a guide near Asheville to help you find the elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park? We're offering just that! We currently have a 100% success rate in finding the elk!
For our private Half-Day Elk Viewing Photo Tour, we've put together a trip that takes you about an hour west of Asheville out to Great Smoky Mountain National Park to see the elk herds in the scenic valley near the Tennessee border. Everyone seems to really love this tour. Our Elk tours are very adventurous and sure to please! This tour focuses less on learning photography and more on capturing the elk but if you're interested in learning, we'll teach along the way!
We know when and where to find the elk, we can get you close (safely) to the animals, and we'll make sure you have the right settings to capture the elk!
Hiking: there's typically no hiking involved on this tour.
Pickup: Please note that pickup is optional. No extra charge. Our pickup range is anywhere within the Asheville city limits. We are happy to pick you up from your location and return you at the conclusion of your tour!
What to wear:
Be prepared for colder-than-expected temperatures, as well as possible rain showers.
Camera Equipment:
Each person should bring a camera of some sort, ideally, a DSLR or mirrorless camera but smartphones work! A tripod is highly recommended.
What's included:
Lessons, water, snacks, and private transportation.
Other things to bring:
Additional food and/or drinks of your choice, sunscreen, and other personal needs should be brought as well.
Adventure Tips
Bring a telephoto lens
A lens with 200mm+ helps capture detailed elk shots from a distance without disturbing them.
Dress warmly in layers
Mountain mornings can be chilly; layering keeps you comfortable during early light.
Use a tripod or monopod
Stabilize your camera for sharper images, especially in low light conditions.
Stay quiet and patient
Elk are easily spooked; silence improves your chances of close, natural shots.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Black bears
History
Elk were reintroduced to the Smokies in the early 2000s after being absent for a century, revitalizing this keystone species in the ecosystem.
Conservation
The tour supports ethical wildlife viewing practices to minimize human impact and promote long-term elk habitat preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Asheville
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Telephoto lens
Essential for clear close-ups of elk at a distance.
Warm clothing with layers
Keeps you comfortable during cool morning hours.
fall specific
Camera tripod/monopod
Improves photo stability in low light.
Binoculars
Helpful for initial spotting before preparing your shot.