Cades Cove is one of the most popular spots in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a must-visit destination during your Smoky Mountain vacation! It has so much to offer, from stunning views to hiking trails to historical sites and more! Keep reading to learn more about Cades Cove and prepare for your visit to this beautiful valley.
Cades Cove History
During your visit, you can learn a lot about Cades Cove history, including how early settlers lived for more than 100 years before the national park was established. As you drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road, you’ll encounter many historical sites, such as old cabins, churches, barns, mills, cemeteries, and more. Some of these structures have been standing for more than 200 years! You can get out and explore many of these sites to travel back in time and see pioneer life up close. Some of the interesting historical sites in Cades Cove include the Primitive Baptist Church, John Oliver Cabin, Cantilever Barn, John Cable Mill, and Henry Whitehead Place. If you want to learn more about life in the Cove, make sure you stop at the Cades Cove Visitor Center during your visit!
Things to Do in Cades Cove
The Cades Cove Loop Road is one of the most popular scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains. This 11-mile paved loop winds through the valley and features magnificent views of sprawling meadows, lush forests, and the surrounding mountains. During your drive, you’ll also come across historical sites and hiking trails that you can get out and explore! Some of the best things to do in Cades Cove include:
- Hiking - Some of the most popular hikes in Cades Cove are Abrams Falls, Gregory Bald, and Cades Cove Nature Trail.
- Horseback Riding - Cades Cove Riding Stables offers guided horseback rides around the valley.
- Bicycling - You can rent a bike or bring your own to ride around the Cades Cove Loop. During the summer, you can bike or walk the loop without cars on Vehicle-Free Wednesdays.
- Picnicking - Enjoy a meal surrounded by nature at the Cades Cove Picnic Area. These picnic sites include charcoal grills, picnic tables, and beautiful scenery.
- Wildlife Viewing - Cades Cove is home to a great abundance of wildlife, which you can often spot from the Cades Cove Loop Road and hiking trails.
Cades Cove Wildlife
There are many different Smoky Mountain animals that you could see during your visit to Cades Cove. The most popular Cades Cove residents are black bears. These animals are most active right before dawn and right after dusk, and you’re most likely to see them in the spring and fall. White tailed deer are also common to spot in Cades Cove. These creatures can often be seen in open fields while driving along the loop. Other wildlife you could spot include wild turkeys, groundhogs, coyotes, salamanders, and a wide variety of birds.
Tips for Visiting Cades Cove
If you’re planning a visit to Cades Cove, you should keep the following tips in mind:
- Be patient - Cades Cove is one of the most popular destinations in the national park, which means it can get busy. Be prepared to spend more time than you might expect.
- Drive slowly - Pay attention to the posted speed limit and expect to slow down and stop in traffic.
- Respect the wildlife - For your safety and the animals’ safety, you must stay at least 50 yards away from wildlife, so bring binoculars and a camera for viewing. Never feed, touch, frighten, or disturb any wildlife.
- Check weather and road conditions - While Cades Cove is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, bad weather can impact road conditions and lead to closures. It’s best to check the GSMNP website for current road closures before your visit.
Where to Stay
Now that you know what to expect during your visit to Cades Cove, it’s time to start planning your vacation! Take a look at our selection of Pigeon Forge cabin rentals and book the perfect place to stay just a short drive away from Cades Cove and all the other fun things to do in the Smokies!
