Unfortunately, due to loss of habitat and unregulated hunting, the species was entirely wiped out by the late 1800s. The Eastern Elk was once a predominant species in North Carolina and across the eastern coast. But for us, and for wildlife enthusiasts across our region, the elk in the NC mountains are one of the coolest reasons to visit!Īccording to the Wildlife Commission, there are currently about 150 to 200 elk residing in North Carolina.
Western North Carolina has a ton of amazing reasons to visit, from the cool weather and the amazing views to the waterfalls and hikes.