Ready to explore the wonders of Cades Cove Loop in the Smoky Mountains? It’s a must-visit spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike! Whether you prefer strolling, driving, or biking, get excited for an awesome day in the mountains.
Over the years, I’ve collected many happy memories driving through the Cades Cove Loop. Sometimes it’s quiet with deer and birds in the distance. Other times, we spot lots of animals, like bears and bucks. It’s always exciting because we never know what we’ll see next. But one thing is for sure—the Smoky Mountains are always stunning, no matter the season.
I hope you enjoy exploring this loop as much as I have! So, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Cades Cove – all the insider tips you need are right here!
Cades Cove, nestled in the Smoky Mountains, is just a short drive from Townsend! It’s also about 27 miles from Gatlinburg and 30 miles from Pigeon Forge. Plus, with great places to stay in Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Townsend, it’s a perfect spot for a fun and easy getaway.
Where to Stay
As you plan your visit to Cades Cove, finding the perfect accommodation is key. Camping in the Smokies is one of my favorite things to do, but campgrounds fill up fast. For other camping options, check out Townsend, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. These areas also offer great hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, some by the water or with hot tubs. There are plenty of choices nearby to create an unforgettable trip!
Cades Cove Loop
The Cades Cove Loop is a one-way road that is 11 miles long, perfect for driving, biking, or walking. It has paved roads, pull-offs, and parking areas throughout. A parking pass is required if you stop for more than 10 minutes. For a shorter trip, you have a couple of options. You can cut across one of the two gravel two-way roads: Sparks Lane or Hyatt Lane, which will cut the loop down to 7 miles. Both of these roads are located on your left. You can use these lanes to exit the loop sooner or go around the loop again without exiting. The Cades Cove Loop is perfect for taking in the beauty of the Smokies at your own pace and learning about this historic area in the mountains.
Parking Pass Information
Although entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains is FREE and driving the loop is FREE, if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes within the park, including Cades Cove, you must have a valid parking pass displayed on your vehicle. The visitors centers in the Smokies have Parking Passes available for purchase. Passes are also available to purchase at the kiosk located at the entrance to Cades Cove. Parking passes can also be ordered before your trip HERE.
Parking Passes are available for purchase at visitor centers and also at the kiosk located at the entrance to Cades Cove.
Be Aware: Wildlife and Bear Safety
When visiting Cades Cove, it’s important to stay bear-aware and mindful of other wildlife, always maintaining a safe distance to ensure everyone’s safety. Let’s all stay safe so we can enjoy the mountains together!
- Keep a safe distance: Never approach or feed wildlife. Stay at least 150 feet away from bears and other animals.
- Store food properly: Use bear-proof containers and never leave food unattended.
- Dispose of trash: Use designated bear-proof trash cans and pack out what you pack in.
Visitors Center & Restrooms
The Visitors Center, halfway through the cove loop, is a great spot to take a break. It has a gift shop and, thankfully, RESTROOMS! Also, we love picnicking here—bring your chairs or a big blanket, enjoy a meal, and let the kids run wild. It’s perfect for a bathroom stop and stretching your legs. During our visits, our family always looks forward to this stop; the open space is ideal for the kids to play and explore. It’s a must-stop for a break on your adventure.
Glimpse into the Past
If you love history, you’re in for a treat. The historical sites at Cades Cove offer a glimpse into yesteryear, letting you step back in time. So, plan to stop at each one, take a leisurely walk around, and imagine what life was like for the early settlers. It’s like a real-life time machine!
Historical Sites
- John Oliver Cabin: Built in the early 1820s, it’s the oldest standing structure in the cove. There is a paved walkway that is handicap accessible to the cabin, so everyone can explore.
- Primitive Baptist Church: The second stop on the loop is the Primitive Baptist Church, established in 1827, but you’ll need to take a dirt side road to reach it.
- Methodist Church: Although this church was established in the 1820s, the current building was constructed in 1902, taking only 115 days to complete!
- Missionary Baptist Church: After a division at the Primitive Baptist Church, a new church was formed in 1841. Later, the current building was completed in 1915.
- Elijah Oliver Place: In addition to the main cabin, their is also a chicken coop a smokehouse, a corn crib, and a springhouse.
- Cable Mill: A working grist mill that is still grinding cornmeal today, and this cornmeal is also available for purchase in the gift shop in Cades Cove.
- Becky Cable House: Built in 1879, this house offers insight into post-Civil War life.
- Henry Whitehead Cabin: Located on Forge Creek Road near the exit from the Cades Cove Visitor Center parking lot, it is also an example of transitional architecture from log to frame structures.
- Dan Lawson Place: Dan Lawson was the postmaster of the cove for over 25 years. Plus, the post office was in the center room of this building for many of those years. Also known for its brick chimney and outbuildings.
- Tipton Place: Built in the 1870’s, and also has a double-cantilever barn.
- Carter Shields Cabin: Will Sparks built this cabin around 1880. It has one room with a fireplace and stairs leading to a loft above. It is also one of the most photographed buildings in a national park.
Hiking Trails in Cades Cove
Cades Cove is full of fantastic hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains! Also, be sure to pack water, wear comfy shoes, and know your route. AllTrails is my go-to for trail maps. Here are trails in the Cades Cove area:
- Abrams Falls Trail – 5 miles round trip (a great family hike, moderate level)
- Gregory Ridge Trail – 11.3 miles round trip (get an early start for this one, strenuous level)
- Rich Mountain Loop Trail – 8.5 miles round trip (an early start is recommended, moderate level)
- Anthony Creek Trail – 16.5 miles round trip (you’ll need an early start for sure, strenuous level)
Cades Cove Riding Stables: Horseback Riding
Are you a horse lover? If so, Cades Cove Riding Stables offers horseback riding on a first-come, first-served basis, so get there early to explore the Smokies on horseback! Carriage rides and hayrides are also available, providing a fun and unique way to experience the beauty of Cades Cove. It’s a fantastic way to see the scenery and wildlife. Perfect for families and nature lovers, you’ll have a blast at Cades Cove Riding Stables. Check their website HERE for more info!
Discover No-Vehicle Wednesdays (May – Sept)
Planning a trip to Cades Cove? Here’s a helpful tip! Every Wednesday from the first Wednesday in May to the last Wednesday in September, Cades Cove is car-free. Only walkers, runners, and bikers are allowed. It’s a great way to enjoy the peace and beauty of the cove. So, grab your walking shoes or bike and enjoy a relaxing day in nature!
Bike Cades Cove
Bring your own bike or rent one and explore the scenic Cades Cove Loop! Bicycle rentals are available next to the Cades Cove Campground Store, where you can also park. I loved biking the Cove, although I found the hills challenging and opted to walk my bike up several. There’s something special about biking the Cove with the mountain air—such an amazing, fun day! Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to snag your ride.
Check out bike rental information HERE!
Check out the photo —it’s my hubby biking the loop! We loved the no-vehicle Wednesday. So much fun!
Cades Cove is Calling: Ready to Explore
So, with all the info in your hands, are you ready to explore? Cades Cove Loop is calling your name! From hiking trails and historic cabins to breathtaking views, this spot has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to get out on a hike or take a slow drive through the cove, it’s a slice of Smoky Mountain heaven. So, grab your camera, lace up your boots, and come visit one of my favorite places in the Smoky Mountains. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!
Share Your Cades Cove Adventures
We’d love to hear about your Cades Cove adventures! Share your amazing moments with us using the hashtag #TennesseeTrekkn. Also, check out our Facebook page to join in on all the trekkn’ fun. Together, we can make some unforgettable memories!
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