Cataloochee Ranch
About
Originally founded in 1933 and celebrating over 90 years of hosting guests as the first commercial tourism establishment in the Great Smoky Mountains, Cataloochee Ranch reopened in March 2024 revealing a complete transformation with luxury accommodations and amenities while maintaining the authentic Smoky Mountains spirit of adventure. Now as a boutique Relais & Châteaux property, Cataloochee Ranch welcomes guests to explore the beauty of North Carolina mountains while connecting with one another through horseback riding, wine tastings, art studio courses, and more.
With Cataloochee Ranch’s century-long history in the Great Smoky Mountains, owners David and Annie Colquitt take great responsibility in maintaining the beauty of the land and preserving the area. The minimal lighting, of which is properly shielded and dimmed, allows for a 360 view of the night sky often revealing the Milky Way on clear evenings. Guests are also welcome to join frequent on-site stargazing sessions with the Asheville Astronomy Club.
Cataloochee Ranch reservations are available at cataloocheeranch.com. Additionally, the on-site restaurant, Switchback, is open to the public with reservations available daily via Resy. Tickets to monthly events such as sommelier-led wine tastings, musical performances and stargazing sessions are available via Resy as well.
About the DarkSky International Lodging Program:
Founded in 2023, the DarkSky International Lodging Program sets a new standard in the travel industry, encouraging hospitality providers to actively participate in protecting the night from the harmful effects of light pollution while offering guests an awe-inspiring and educational experience under pristine dark skies. Learn more
About DarkSky International:
DarkSky International’s mission is to preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. Learn more at darksky.org.
Address
119 Ranch Drive Maggie Valley, NC 28751
Google Maps
Contact
Cataloochee Ranch
+1 (828) 926-1401
James Brigagliano
DarkSky International, Lighting Program Manager
+1 (520) 858-0428
[email protected]
Website
Certified
2025
