Cades Cove: Definitive Guide to the Top Destination in the National Park

Discover Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Tucked within the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove is a stunning 6,800-acre valley surrounded by picturesque mountain scenery. As one of the most visited areas in the park, it attracts more than two million visitors each year thanks to its combination of natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and historical landmarks.

Scenic Drives and Historic Landmarks

The 11-mile, one-way Cades Cove Loop Road offers a relaxed, scenic drive through the valley. Along the route, visitors can explore restored 19th-century churches, pioneer cabins, barns, and a working grist mill. Ample pull-offs and parking areas allow for photo opportunities, wildlife viewing, and self-guided tours of the historic structures. The road is open year-round, weather permitting, from sunrise to sunset.

Exceptional Wildlife Viewing

Cades Cove is a top location for wildlife observation in the Smokies. The open valley is ideal for spotting white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, and black bears. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see animals in their natural habitat. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful distance and refrain from feeding wildlife.

Hiking Trails for All Skill Levels

The valley is also a gateway to several popular hiking trails:

Abrams Falls Trail: A moderate 5.2-mile round trip to a scenic waterfall.
Rich Mountain Loop: An 8.5-mile trail offering panoramic views and historic features.
Gregory Bald Trail: A more strenuous 9-mile hike known for its flame azalea displays in late spring.

Shorter hikes, such as the Elijah Oliver Cabin Trail and the Cades Cove Nature Trail, are excellent for families and casual hikers.

Bicycling and Car-Free Mornings

From May through September, the Loop Road is closed to motor vehicles on Wednesday and Saturday mornings until 10 a.m., providing a peaceful experience for cyclists and walkers. Bicycles can be rented on-site, and the relatively flat terrain of the Cove makes it one of the best places in the park for recreational biking.

Camping and Visitor Amenities

Cades Cove Campground is open year-round and features 159 campsites for tents and RVs. Facilities include flush toilets, drinking water, and a general store offering essential supplies, bicycle rentals, and refreshments.

The Cades Cove Visitor Center, located at the halfway point of the Loop Road, is open daily except for Christmas Day. It features cultural exhibits, a bookstore, and restrooms.

Guided Tours and Horseback Riding

Cades Cove Riding Stables provides seasonal guided horseback rides, carriage tours, and hayrides from March through November. These tours are a great way to experience the landscape and learn about the area’s history through the insights of knowledgeable guides.

For equestrians, the nearby Anthony Creek Horse Camp offers primitive camping and access to several scenic riding trails.

Getting to Cades Cove

From Gatlinburg, travel west through the national park via Little River Road, a scenic 25-mile route that ends at Cades Cove. Visitors from Pigeon Forge can take Wears Valley Road (Highway 321) to Townsend and follow the signs to the Cove. GPS signals can be unreliable in the park, so it is recommended to bring a printed map for navigation.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you're interested in a scenic drive, a peaceful hike, or a step back into Appalachian history, Cades Cove offers an unforgettable experience in every season. Early morning and late afternoon visits typically offer the most tranquil atmosphere and best opportunities for wildlife sightings. Check out the website: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/cadescove.htm