Are you planning a hike in the North Carolina Smokies? If so, consider trails that have historical structures. They allow you to explore pieces of the area’s rich history. Let us tell you about an excellent hiking recommendation in Cataloochee Valley! Read on to learn more about the Steve Woody House and where it’s located on the Rough Fork Trail :
About the Steve Woody House: History + Appearance
The Woody House is a one-bedroom log cabin turned farmhouse that was built in 1880 by Johnathan Woody. His son Steve later expanded and modernized the home, including extra rooms and a porch. You can still see the original logs in some parts of the house, but the exterior is framed siding that’s painted white.
The property once included a chicken house, tool house, canning house, springhouse, and woodshed. The only other structure remaining is the springhouse. It was used to keep perishable goods cold. The inside maintains the cool temperature because the springhouse is constructed over a natural water spring.
Visitors can explore the property and go inside the main house. Imagine what day-to-day life was like for the Woody family. Use caution, as the wood and other materials are old!
Rough Fork Trail: Short Hike to the Woody House
The entire Rough Fork Trail is nearly 13 miles roundtrip, with around 2,300 feet of elevation gain; however, the Steve Woody House is just a short distance from the trailhead for a 2-mile rountrip hike.
Directions to Trailhead
The trailhead for the Rough Fork Trail is located at the end of Cataloochee Road. Take Interstate 40 to Exit 20 in North Carolina near Maggie Valley and Waynesville. You will then turn onto US-276 (Jonathan Creek Road) and stay on it for less than a mile before reaching Cove Creek Road. Stay on this road for 11 miles and drive into Cataloochee Valley. There will be a portion of gravel road, and you’ll turn left when the road is paved again.
You will arrive at the trailhead once you’ve passed the Cataloochee Campground and Caldwell Place before the end of Cataloochee Road. The trailhead has only 9 parking spots, so it’s a good idea to arrive early during peak hiking times. Keep in mind that all vehicles need a parking pass!.
More Info About the Rough Fork Trail
If you continue on the Rough Fork Trail past the Steve Woody House, you’ll come across Backcountry Campsite #40, located 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Plan your trip for the warmer months if you want to go backcountry camping here! Campers need a reservation and permit.
Continue onto the Caldwell Fork Trail junction before ending the hike at Polls Gap. Polls Gap is 4,900 feet high. It was an area used for livestock grazing. Before heading back, take a moment and admire the stunning views. Snap a few photos here to commemorate the end of your trek.
Other Hikes in the NC Smokies
We hope you explore the Rough Fork Trail and the Steve Woody House while you’re in the Cataloochee Valley. Want to know about other hikes in the North Carolina Smokies? Read up on the Noland Creek Trail!
