Cades Cove
Historic valley in the Smokies with an 11-mile loop road, offering wildlife viewing and preserved pioneer homesteads.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife & fewer crowds
Cades Cove
Best Time
Best for wildlife & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic valley in the Smokies with an 11-mile loop road, offering wildlife viewing and preserved pioneer homesteads.
"Absolutely breathtaking views. We wanted to take a drive to look at wildlife and decided to drive here and take the 11 mile loop."
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM for fewer cars. Weekdays are best!
🐻 Wildlife Etiquette
Maintain a safe distance from animals. Never feed them!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Homesteads
Throughout the Loop Road
Step back in time exploring preserved cabins, churches, and mills from early settlers.
Abundant Wildlife
Meadows and forests along the Loop Road
Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, turkeys, and other native animals in their natural habitat.
Scenic Loop Drive
Cades Cove Loop Road
An 11-mile one-way road offering breathtaking mountain views and pull-offs for exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Traffic: Timing is Everything
Embrace the Loop: One-Way Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM for fewer cars. Weekdays are best!
🐻 Wildlife Etiquette
Maintain a safe distance from animals. Never feed them!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Park and walk short trails to discover hidden gems and historical sites.
🚲 Bike the Loop
On Wednesdays (May-Sept), the loop is closed to cars. Perfect for biking!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM for fewer cars. Weekdays are best!
🐻 Wildlife Etiquette
Maintain a safe distance from animals. Never feed them!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Park and walk short trails to discover hidden gems and historical sites.
🚲 Bike the Loop
On Wednesdays (May-Sept), the loop is closed to cars. Perfect for biking!
📸 Capture the Moment
Sunset offers stunning light for photos. Bring your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich historical sites in Cades Cove. Many appreciate the opportunity to step back in time and witness nature's beauty. However, some find the traffic congestion on the loop road to be a significant drawback, leading to long waits and a less enjoyable experience.
"Loved the experience, the park rangers were very nice and also very informative about the park. We walked some of the trails, seen the old cabins and the old churches, even got stopped by park rangers because there was a momma bear and her cubs walking around the area. The gift shop had had so many cool items and books about the family’s who once called cades cove home."
Cory Yeadon
"We had a great time we were able to see three black bears two deer bunch of turkeys. It's nice to be able to walk around and look at the old buildings and enjoy the scenery."
Chuck Mitchell
"Absolutely breathtaking views. We wanted to take a drive to look at wildlife and decided to drive here and take the 11 mile loop. It was so pretty. We didn't see much wildlife unfortunately, but it was still worth it. We saw one bear when leaving, horses, lots of turkey and butterflies."
Brittany Graddy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cades Cove is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access is typically via Townsend, Tennessee, or from Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge. The main entrance to the park is free, but there's a parking tag requirement for longer stays.
Parking is available at various pull-offs along the Cades Cove Loop Road and at the Cades Cove Visitor Center. Be aware that parking can fill up quickly during busy times.
Yes, the Cades Cove Loop Road is an 11-mile, one-way paved road. It's the primary way to experience the cove's scenery and historic sites.
The Cades Cove Loop Road is generally open from sunrise to sunset daily, weather permitting. However, it is closed to vehicles on Wednesdays from early May through late September to allow for pedestrian and bicycle use.
While RVs and trailers can navigate the loop, it's not recommended due to narrow sections and potential traffic congestion. It's best to park larger vehicles at designated areas and explore by car or bicycle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and therefore no ticket is required for Cades Cove. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park.
Entry into Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free. You will only need to purchase a parking tag if you plan to park for longer than 15 minutes. These tags are affordable and can be purchased online or at various locations within the park.
There is no reservation system for driving the Cades Cove Loop Road. Access is first-come, first-served. Arriving early is the best strategy to avoid long waits.
Yes, the Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to motorized vehicles every Wednesday from early May through late September, allowing for biking and walking.
The Cades Cove Ranger Station provides information about the park, historical exhibits, and assistance. It's a good starting point for learning about the area's history and ecology.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best times for wildlife viewing are early morning and late afternoon. Look for bears, deer, turkeys, and other animals in the open meadows and along the edges of the forest. Patience is key!
The 11-mile loop can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, or even longer, depending on traffic, wildlife sightings, and how often you stop to explore the historic buildings and trails.
Yes, there are several hiking trails accessible from the Cades Cove Loop Road, offering opportunities to explore the natural beauty and history of the area. Some popular options include the Abrams Falls Trail.
Cades Cove features numerous preserved historic structures, including churches (Methodist, Primitive Baptist, Missionary Baptist), cabins, a grist mill, and a cantilever barn, offering a glimpse into pioneer life.
Dogs are permitted in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Cades Cove, but they must be leashed at all times and are not allowed on most hiking trails. They are allowed in developed areas and campgrounds.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire loop offers stunning photo opportunities, from the historic buildings against mountain backdrops to wildlife in the meadows. Sunset provides beautiful golden hour light.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife photography to maintain a safe distance. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and historic structures.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This is also when wildlife is most active.
Drone usage is restricted in all national parks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Launching, landing, or operating a drone from or over areas administered by the National Park Service is prohibited.
Iconic subjects include the historic churches, cabins, the cantilever barn, wildlife (bears, deer, turkeys), and the sweeping valley vistas with the surrounding mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families:
* Arrive early: Beat crowds and see more active wildlife.
* Pack essentials: Snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the car.
* Explore historic sites: Engage kids with stories of the past.
* Wednesday bike days: A fun, active alternative.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for slow-moving traffic, which can be both a challenge and an opportunity. It allows more time to frame shots of wildlife or historic structures.
Remember that drones are prohibited in national parks, so plan your shots accordingly. 🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Consider visiting on a Wednesday during the summer months when the loop is closed to vehicles. This transforms the road into a cyclist's paradise and allows for extended walking and exploration without the concern of traffic.
Always wear sturdy hiking shoes, carry plenty of water, and be aware of trail conditions and wildlife. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Cades Cove Loop Road
During the summer months, the National Park Service closes the loop to motorized vehicles every Wednesday to allow for a more peaceful experience for cyclists and pedestrians. This is an excellent opportunity for those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, offering a chance to see wildlife without the noise and congestion of cars.
Remember that this is a slow-paced experience; the goal is to immerse yourself in the history and nature of the cove, not to rush through it. Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for a leisurely journey. Key Takeaways for the Loop:
* One-way traffic: You cannot turn around.
* Traffic congestion: Expect delays, especially during peak times.
* Shortcuts available: Sparks Lane and Hyatt Lane offer early exits.
* Wednesday vehicle closure: Enjoy car-free exploration in summer.
* Allow ample time: Plan for 2-4 hours or more.
Wildlife Encounters in Cades Cove
Other common sightings include white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, and various bird species. The best chances of spotting wildlife are during the early morning and late afternoon hours when animals are most active and the light is ideal for viewing. It's crucial to remember that Cades Cove is a natural habitat, and visitors must practice responsible wildlife viewing. Always maintain a safe distance from animals, especially bears. Never feed them, as this can lead to dangerous habituation and health problems for the animals. Park rangers are often present to ensure visitor safety and animal welfare.
While seeing wildlife is a highlight for many, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of not seeing much. Some visitors have driven the loop without significant sightings, while others have been lucky enough to see multiple animals. Wildlife Viewing Tips:
* Best times: Early morning and late afternoon.
* Common animals: Bears, deer, turkeys, coyotes.
* Safety first: Maintain distance, never feed wildlife.
* Be patient: Sightings are not guaranteed.
Exploring Cades Cove's Rich History
Key historical sites include the John Oliver Cabin, one of the oldest structures in the cove, and the Methodist Church, which served as a community gathering place. The Missionary Baptist Church and Primitive Baptist Church also stand as testaments to the spiritual life of the settlers. Don't miss the Cantilever Barn, a unique architectural marvel.
Historical Highlights:
* Preserved structures: Cabins, churches, grist mill, barn.
* Pioneer life: Understand the challenges and resilience of early settlers.
* Visitor Center: Learn more at the historic Cable Mill.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit