Cataloochee, a remote valley named by the Cherokee, means "standing tall" and likely refers to the many ridges that surround it. Because of its rich soil, before the park was established in 1934, Cataloochee was home to one of the largest communities in the area. Many historic structures from that time, including farmsteads, cabins, and churches, still stand. The valley was also chosen as the most suitable habitat for reintroducing elk to the park, and beginning with 50 elk brought from Canada in 2001, Cataloochee is now home to the largest herd of elk in the park.