6 Of The Best Things To Do In Cades Cove You Must See

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. One of the most popular activities in the area is driving the scenic loop road, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can also take part in some of the many things to do in Cades Cove like explore historic buildings, including churches, cabins, and a working grist mill.

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For those looking for a more active adventure, Cades Cove offers a range of hiking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging treks. And if you’re looking to cool off on a hot summer day, the nearby Abrams Falls is a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole that’s worth the hike. Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Make sure you check out our answers to some of most asked questions about Cades Cove below.

What Is So Special About Cades Cove?

Cades Cove is a truly special place that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and recreational opportunities. The pristine landscape includes rolling hills, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. But it’s not just the natural beauty that draws people here; it’s also the rich cultural history of the area, which is evident in the preserved buildings, churches, and other structures that date back to the early days of European settlement in the region.

Things To Do In Cades Cove Loop

One of the best things about Cades Cove is it offers visitors many opportunities to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural history. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top things to do so you can make the most of your visit to this special corner of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

1. Go Biking

On Wednesdays, from May to September, the Cades Cove Scenic Loop is ONLY opened to pedestrians and bicyclist. Before you venture out biking in Cades Cove, make sure you wear a helmet and bring the essentials like water, food, and a first aid kit. If didn’t bring a bike on your vacation, don’t worry! There is a bike rental located near the campground store.

2. Horseback Riding

Whether you’re an experienced rider or a first-timer, horseback riding in Cades Cove is an unforgettable way to experience this special corner of the Great Smoky Mountains. There are several horseback riding stables in the vicinity of Cades Cove that offer guided rides through the valley and surrounding mountains. These rides can range from leisurely one-hour trips through the cove to more challenging half-day rides that explore the area’s rugged terrain. Horseback riders can enjoy stunning views of the valley’s rolling hills, lush forests, and abundant wildlife.

3. Go Hiking

Hiking in Cades Cove is a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty up close. There are over 30 miles of hikes that wind through the valley and surrounding mountains, there’s something for hikers of all skill levels.

Looking for something easy? Then check out the Cades Cove Nature Trail; a two mile loop that is for everyone. Do you love waterfalls? Then Abrams Falls Trail is a must-see! The moderate 5-mile round trip hike leads to a stunning 20-foot waterfall. For those seeking a more challenging hike, the 8.5-mile round trip hike to the top of Thunderhead Mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

While on the trails, hikers can also spot wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and black bears. It’s important that you carry bear spray with your while hiking anywhere within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

4. Visit Historic Cabins

There are numerous historic cabins in Cades Cove that offer a glimpse into the past way of life in the Great Smoky Mountains. These cabins were once inhabited by settlers who lived in the area before it became part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The John Oliver cabin is thought to be the oldest cabin within the National Park.

Today, visitors can tour many of these cabins and see firsthand how early settlers lived, worked, and survived in the mountains. Some of the cabins have been restored to their original condition, while others have been preserved as they were when the park was established in the 1930s.

5. Step Inside Historic Churches

Cades Cove is also home to several historic churches that played a vital role in the lives of early settlers in the Great Smoky Mountains. The churches, the Primitive Baptist Church, the Missionary Baptist Church, and the Methodist Church, were once the center of community life, providing a place for worship, fellowship, and social gatherings. Today, visitors can tour these historic churches and learn about their significance in the area’s history. Many of the churches have been restored to their original condition and still hold occasional services and weddings.

6. Chase Waterfalls

The waterfalls in Cades Cove are a great way to experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and are a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the park. The most well-known waterfall in the area is Abrams Falls, a 20-foot tall waterfall that can be reached via a moderate 2.5-mile hike. The hike takes visitors through lush forests and alongside the Abrams Creek, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Cades Cove History

The history of Cades Cove dates back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by the indigenous Cherokee people, who used the cove as a hunting ground and agricultural settlement. In the early 19th century, European settlers began moving into the area, and by the mid-1800s, the cove was home to a thriving community of farmers, craftsmen, and other settlers. Over the years, the cove saw its share of triumphs and tragedies, including the Civil War, which had a significant impact on the area’s residents. Today, it is a window into the past, with preserved buildings, churches, and other structures that offer a glimpse into what life was like for the early settlers of the region.

Where is Cades Cove?

Cades Cove is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina in the southeastern United States. Specifically, it is situated in the Tennessee portion of the park, and can be accessed via the Townsend entrance. Once you enter the park, you’ll follow a winding road through scenic forest and mountain terrain before reaching Cades Cove. The journey is an experience in itself, as the drive is filled with breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains.

Directions To Cades Cove

From Gatlinburg

To go from Gatlinburg to Cades Cove, you’ll want to head south on US-441 until you reach the Sugarlands Visitor Center, which is located approximately 2 miles south of Gatlinburg. From there, you’ll turn left onto Little River Road and follow it for approximately 18 miles until you reach the Townsend Y, where you’ll turn left onto Lamar Alexander Parkway. Follow the parkway for about 1 mile before turning right onto Laurel Creek Road, which will take you into the Cades Cove area

From Pigeon Forge

To go from Pigeon Forge to Cades Cove, you’ll want to head south on US-441 until you reach the Sugarlands Visitor Center, which is located approximately 13 miles south of Pigeon Forge. From there, you’ll turn left onto Little River Road and follow it for approximately 18 miles until you reach the Townsend Y, where you’ll turn left onto Lamar Alexander Parkway. Follow the parkway for about 1 mile before turning right onto Laurel Creek Road, which will take you right to the entrance.

Address To Cades Cove

Cades Cove Scenic Loop is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and as such, it does not have a physical address. To reach Cades Cove, you can enter the park via the Townsend entrance and follow the signs to the entrance.

Cades Cove Entrance

At the entrance there is a small Visitors Center. Make sure you stop to use the restroom and grab a copy of the self-guiding tour booklet that includes a Cades Cove map.

Questions You May Have About Cades Cove

What are the hours for Cades Cove Loop?

Year round, the Cades Cove hours are from sunrise to sunset for vehicle traffic. However, on Wednesdays, from May to September, the Scenic Loop is ONLY opened to pedestrians and bicyclist.

How much does it cost to get in Cades Cove?

It’s absolutely FREE!

How long is Cades Cove Loop

Cades Cove is one-way loop road, which is approximately 11 miles long and offers numerous opportunities for sightseeing and exploration.

How long does it take to go through Cades Cove?

It takes about 2-4 hours to complete the loop depending on the amount of traffic and how many stops you take along the route. It’s worth noting that the road can be quite busy during peak seasons, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel.

What time of day to go to Cades Cove?

The best time of day to visit would be the morning. There is less traffic and you are more likely to see more wildlife.

What is the best time to see bears in Cades Cove?

The best time to see bears in Cades Cove is typically in the early morning or late evening hours during the summer and early fall months. Bears are most active during these times, especially during the dawn and dusk hours when they are more likely to be out foraging for food. However, it’s important to remember that bears are wild animals and should be observed from a safe distance. Visitors should never approach or feed bears, and should always follow park guidelines for wildlife viewing to ensure both their own safety and the well-being of the animals.

How Is The Weather In Cades Cove TN?

The weather in Cades Cove varies depending on the season. During the summer months, temperatures are typically warm, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant colors as the leaves change. Winter can be cold and snowy, with occasional road closures due to winter weather conditions. Spring brings milder temperatures and blooming wildflowers. It’s important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before visiting Cades Cove, especially during the winter months, to ensure safe and enjoyable travel.

Does Cades Cove have waterfalls?

Yes, Cades Cove has several beautiful waterfalls that are well worth a visit. The most well-known waterfall in the area is Abrams Falls, a 20-foot tall waterfall that can be reached via a moderate 2.5-mile hike.

Are dogs allowed in Cades Cove?

Yes, dogs are allowed in Cades Cove, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. This is for the safety of both the dogs and the wildlife in the park. Dogs are not allowed on any hiking trails in the park, but they are permitted on the gravel roads. Visitors with dogs are encouraged to pick up after their pets and dispose of waste properly.

What can you not do at Cades Cove?

• Visitors should not feed or approach wildlife, as this can be dangerous for both the visitors and the animals.
• Visitors should also not remove or disturb any natural or historic features of the park, including rocks, plants, and historic structures.
• Graffiti and carving names or other marks into historic buildings or other structures is strictly prohibited and can result in fines and legal action.

Is there cell service in Cades Cove?

Throughout Cades Cove, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park the cell phone coverage can be spotty or completely unavailable. Before your visit check out their new wi-fi free app that includes a detailed map of Cades Cove. Or you can grab an inexpensive booklet that is available at the visitors center at the entrance.

Things To Do Near Cades Cove

There are several things to do near Cades Cove that are worth exploring. One popular destination is Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can hike to the observation tower at the top of the dome for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Another nearby attraction is the Alum Cave Trail, which offers a challenging but rewarding hike to a unique geological formation known as Alum Cave Bluffs.

Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Townsend, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as tubing, kayaking, and fishing on the Little River. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the area is also home to several charming shops, restaurants, and galleries showcasing the work of local artisans.

Will you be taking a trip to Cades Cove anytime soon?

Let us know in the comments below if you have any questions about planning your trip to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

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