Cades Cove is one of the most scenic areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cades Cove covers an 11-mile loop road where you will see beautiful meadows resting beneath majestic mountain 
ranges, historic cabins, churches, and other historic structures, and wildlife. Wildlife includes black bear, turkey, coyote, and deer.
Throughout the Cove, you will discover many hiking trails, a large picnic area with bbq grills, bicycle rentals, and most noteworthy, breathtaking landscapes. Also, peaceful rivers and streams run throughout the Cove. Especially relevant is that from mountain peaks, you can enjoy magnificent views of the valley below.
How long does a drive through the Cove take?
When visiting this area of the national park, plan to spend a minimum of two hours to drive the 11-mile loop road. If you choose to make stops to view wildlife, visit Cable Mill (an historic grist mill), take a hike, or visit some historic structures, plan to spend the day. You will want to bring a picnic lunch, snacks, and soft beverages. During seasonal months, snacks can be purchased at the general store as you enter Cades Cove.
Best time to visit & what you will see
Cades Cove is wonderful during any season of the year. Furthermore, there are more than 20 hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lots of forest area, majestic mountain peaks, and wildlife. You will often see black bears in the fields or alongside the road. Sometimes they will be in trees. There is also an abundance of deer and wild turkey.
You will find a visitor center at the halfway point. There are restroom facilities, water fountains, and, most of all, a gift shop in the visitor center.
Cameras Needed!
Be sure to bring your camera because you will find a multitude of photo opportunities.
 Cades Cove Loop Road |
 Cable Mill |
 Bicycling in the Cove |
 Horses from the Riding Stable |
 Abrams Falls Hiking Trail |
 Deer |
 Welcome Center |
 You’ll get a warm greeting at the Welcome Center |
 Cades Cove Bookstore |
 Sorghum Molasses, Apple Butter, & more! |
 Water Filled Road – Drive on through |
 Autumn Season |
 Church in Winter |
 Mill in Winter |
 Winter Scene |
 Take a Guided Tour |
Special Events in Cades Cove
Every Fall, you can have fun at the annual Molasses Making demonstration in the Cove. You can also purchase molasses at the store in Cades Cove. There is live mountain music and lots of fun at this festival.
• Abrams Falls Trail
• Beard Cane Trail
• Ace Gap Trail
• Bote Mountain Trail
• Appalachian Trail
