Visit Cades Cove

Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is a 6,800-acre valley that was once home to a thriving community of settlers. The area was first settled in the early 19th century and remained a self-sufficient community until the early 20th century. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved log cabins, churches, and other historic buildings that were once the homes and businesses of these early settlers.

Here are just a few reasons why you should make Cades Cove your next travel destination:

1. Breathtaking Scenery

Cades Cove is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, and it’s not hard to see why. Surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills, this valley offers some of the most stunning views in the Smoky Mountains. The 11-mile scenic loop road takes visitors through open fields, along streams, and past historic buildings, providing endless opportunities to take in the beauty of the area.

2. Abundant Wildlife

One of the main draws of Cades Cove is its abundant wildlife. The valley is home to a diverse range of animals, including deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and more. Visitors can spot these creatures in their natural habitat while driving or biking along the loop road. For a more up-close and personal experience with the wildlife, there are also several hiking trails that offer the chance to see these animals in their natural environment.

3. Rich History

Cades Cove has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s when the first settlers arrived in the valley. These pioneers built homes, churches, and other structures that still stand today. Visitors can walk inside and explore these historic buildings. Some of the historic buildings include the John Oliver Cabin, the Cades Cove Methodist Church, and the cable mill.

4. Outdoor Activities

For those who love the great outdoors, there are a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, camping, and horseback riding. With over 80 miles of hiking trails, there is something for every level of hiker. Biking is also a popular activity in Cades Cove, with a designated bike lane on the loop road. And for those looking for a unique way to explore the valley, horseback riding tours are available.

5. Picnicking and Camping

What better way to enjoy the beauty of Cades Cove than with a picnic or a camping trip? There are several picnic areas scattered throughout the valley, offering the perfect spot to stop and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. For those who want to spend the night, there are also two campgrounds in Cades Cove, with both tent and RV sites available.

6. Spectacular Fall Foliage

Cades Cove is particularly stunning in the fall, when the leaves change to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The valley is a popular destination for leaf-peeping.