moderate
3–4 hours
Suitable for those able to sit and stabilize themselves on off-road vehicles; minimal walking required.
Discover Maggie Valley’s rugged backcountry with Scenic Tours and Adventures’ guided Jeep and UTV trips that blend Cherokee history, wildlife sightings, and thrilling off-road terrain.
Maggie Valley, North Carolina, is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains—an area defined by ancient hardwood forests, rushing streams, and sweeping mountain vistas. Scenic Tours and Adventures offers a distinctive way to experience this iconic landscape through guided Safari Jeep tours and UTV wilderness excursions. These trips are more than rides; they are deep dives into the wild terrain and cultural heritage nestled between ridges and valleys.
The Smoky Mountain Cherokee Medicine Man & Safari Jeep Adventure stands out for blending natural beauty with indigenous history. Guided by experienced leaders, guests trace the footsteps of Cherokee medicine men, connecting with the steep mountain slopes and old-growth forests that continue to embody tribal traditions. This cultural context adds a meaningful layer to the otherwise rugged and thrilling vehicle tours across the high country.
For those drawn to wildlife, the 3- and 4-hour UTV Eco Elk and Wilderness Adventures bring riders close to elk herds and remote ecosystems unreachable by foot alone. These guided outings wind through winding forest trails, dense rhododendron thickets, and ridgeline overlooks reaching mile-high altitudes, promising perspectives that reward every turn. Notably, the mix of mechanical prowess and environmental respect allows visitors to minimize their footprint while maximizing access.
Scenic Tours and Adventures has positioned itself as a unique local operator, combining eco-conscious outdoor recreation with educational storytelling and rugged off-road exploration. Their small-group approach and intimate knowledge of the Maggie Valley region offer visitors a rare chance to experience the Smokies with hands-on guidance, cultural insight, and the adrenaline of a westward-bound safari—right in the heart of the Appalachians.
Whether you’re after sweeping mountain views or firsthand encounters with wildlife and history, these tours unlock parts of the Smokies that most visitors miss—making Scenic Tours and Adventures a must-book for adventurous travelers eager to push beyond the beaten path.
Mountain weather can shift rapidly; layers will keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Wildlife can be shy—telephoto lenses help capture elk and other animals from safe distances.
Carry water especially on longer UTV tours; hydration is key at higher elevations.
These tours pass through delicate habitats; staying with the group protects natural resources.
The Cherokee people inhabited the Smokies for centuries; their medicine men used local plants and mountains for healing.
Scenic Tours and Adventures emphasize low-impact travel and work with local agencies to protect native flora and fauna.
Keeps feet protected while boarding and riding through uneven terrain.
Blocks wind and rain for unpredictable mountain conditions.
spring|fall|winter specific
Protects exposed skin from UV rays during open-air jeep and UTV rides.
summer specific
Enhances wildlife watching, especially elk and bird species in the forests.