Photographing Elk in the Smokies

I understand elk were reintroduced to the park in '02. From what I have read it sounds like the majority of them are in the Cataloochee area. I am very familiar with the park, plan to stay in the Townsend area, and will be there 10/21-10/24. I am trying to find out if it would be worth making the drive from Townsend to Cataloochee. Are all of the elk tagged? Any other recommendations for photography in that area? Thanks for any tips you can provide and hopefully this summer's rain & milder temps bring wonderful fall color! Here is an image from 2 years ago when water levels were pretty low.

Kirk, I believe all of the elk are radio collared, at least all I've seen photos of are. I plan to be in GSMNP that week as well. I'll be pulling my camping trailer to Maggie Valley and spending the entire week in the park area. Perhaps I'll see you up there.

Kirk, The best time is late afternoon and at sunset. Yes all the elk are tagged and collared but you can lift these off with PS very easy. They are calling now and if you go late in afternoon, you will see them. SandyLee

Thanks for the info. Perhaps a morning shoot in the Townsend area followed by an afternoon drive to Cataloochee is in order.

Kirk, I was in Cataloochee a few years ago and the elk were great, all were tagged and had collars but easly removed in PS