We made a trip to Cataloochee between Christmas and the New Year, planning to hike the Little Cataloochee trail. When we got to the junction between Cataloochee Turnpike and Cataloochee Creek road, the Turnpike was gated. (Plan B was pretty enjoyable.)
I was under the impression that the Turnpike was a year-round road for the most part (barring weather closures), but the earliest I've ever driven it was early April, so perhaps I'm mistaken.
If you happen to know whether it's currently open, or who I might call to find out, I'd be grateful for any information.