Discover the Serenity of Cades Cove
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cades Cove in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cades Cove offers breathtaking scenery, rich history, and abundant wildlife. This picturesque valley is a must-visit destination for any nature lover and history enthusiast. Explore the serene landscapes, hike scenic trails, and immerse yourself in the charm of this idyllic cove, where the beauty of nature meets the echoes of the past.
A brief summary to Cades Cove
- Tennessee, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic areas within the cove.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are spectacular at every turn.
- Check for ranger-led programs to learn more about the area's history and ecology.
- Hiking trails can get crowded; plan ahead to avoid peak times.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from Gatlinburg, TN, start on US-441 N. Continue for approximately 10 miles until you reach the intersection with Lonesome Pine Road. Turn left onto Lonesome Pine Road and follow it for about 4 miles until you reach the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. After entering the park, follow the signs for Cades Cove, which is about 25 miles from the entrance. Be aware that there may be a parking fee for the park, typically around $5 per vehicle.
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Car
From Pigeon Forge, TN, take US-441 N towards Gatlinburg. After about 8 miles, turn left onto Little River Road. Follow Little River Road for approximately 12 miles until you reach the entrance to Cades Cove. This route provides beautiful scenic views along the Little River, making it a pleasant drive.
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Public Transportation
If you're relying on public transportation, check for local shuttle services that operate in the area, such as the Smoky Mountain Shuttle. From Gatlinburg, you can take a shuttle to the National Park entrance. Once at the entrance, you will need to transfer to a designated shuttle service that goes to Cades Cove. Be sure to check the shuttle schedules in advance, as they may have limited operating hours and routes.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking to Cades Cove is an option. Start from the Townsend entrance of the National Park and follow Cades Cove Loop Road, which is about 11 miles long. This route is popular for cyclists, especially in the early morning when vehicular traffic is less. Make sure to wear a helmet and bring plenty of water.
Discover more about Cades Cove
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Henry Whitehead House
1.8 km
Explore the historic Henry Whitehead House in Townsend, TN, where captivating architecture meets stunning mountain landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Dan Lawson Cabin
2.0 km
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Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church
2.7 km
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Little River Gorge
14.8 km
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Tucker Springs
20.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Tucker Springs, a historical landmark in Maryville, TN, where nature and history blend harmoniously.
General Sam Houston Historical Marker
21.2 km
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Mayna Treanor Avent Studio
23.6 km
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Sam Houston Historic Schoolhouse
23.7 km
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Wonderland Hotel - Elkmont Club Buildings
24.1 km
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Elkmont Historic District
24.4 km
Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Elkmont Historic District in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, a journey through time and nature.
The Duck Pond and Lily Pond Historical Marker
25.1 km
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Hultquist and Chandler Homes Historical Marker
25.8 km
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Tanasi Memorial
26.3 km
Explore the Tanasi Memorial in Vonore, TN – a historical landmark celebrating the Cherokee heritage and offering serene landscapes for a reflective experience.
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest
27.3 km
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Mount Harrison
27.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Elijah Oliver Cabin
0.9 km
Explore the historical Elijah Oliver Cabin in Cades Cove, where nature meets the rich heritage of early Appalachian settlers.
Cades Cove Visitor Center
1.0 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Cades Cove at the Visitor Center, your essential guide to the Great Smoky Mountains.
Cades Cove Historical Grist Mill
1.0 km
Immerse yourself in history at Cades Cove Historical Grist Mill, a scenic gem in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, showcasing traditional milling and breathtaking views.
Cades Cove Missionary Baptist Church
2.1 km
Explore the Cades Cove Missionary Baptist Church, a historical site nestled in the Smoky Mountains, rich in culture and surrounded by natural beauty.
Tipton Place
2.8 km
Explore the historic Tipton Place in Cades Cove, a charming cabin that reveals the rich heritage of the Smoky Mountains amidst stunning natural beauty.
Abrams Falls Trail
2.9 km
Explore the natural beauty of Abrams Falls Trail in Tennessee, where stunning landscapes and serene waterfalls await adventurous tourists.
John Oliver Cabin
4.6 km
Explore the historic John Oliver Cabin in Townsend, Tennessee, where early settler life meets breathtaking natural beauty in the Smoky Mountains.
Cades Cove Scenic Loop
6.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cades Cove Scenic Loop in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit destination for all travelers.
Cades Cove Picnic Area
6.5 km
Experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains at Cades Cove Picnic Area, a perfect spot for relaxation and nature immersion.
Cades Cove entrance
7.1 km
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and rich wildlife of Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a top destination for outdoor adventure.
Tuckaleechee Caverns
9.4 km
Explore Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, Tennessee—an awe-inspiring subterranean adventure filled with stunning geological formations and rich natural history.
Look Rock - Viewing Platform
10.1 km
Explore Look Rock Viewing Platform in Maryville, TN, for stunning mountain vistas and unforgettable hiking experiences in the Smoky Mountains.
Little River Railroad/Lumber Museum
12.3 km
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Foothills Pkwy
12.5 km
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The Townsend Wye
14.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
10.9 km
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The Barn
11.1 km
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Good Vibes On the River
11.7 km
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Jim Bob's BBQ
12.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Jim Bob's BBQ in Townsend, TN – where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Trailhead Steak & Trout
12.7 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and fresh trout at Trailhead Steak & Trout in Townsend, TN - where Southern hospitality meets delicious cuisine.
Pizza Hut
13.1 km
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The Riverstone Restaurant
14.3 km
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Burger Master Drive In
14.4 km
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Elvira's Cafe
19.6 km
Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality at Elvira's Cafe in Sevierville - your go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, and delightful desserts.
T.Dubbs
29.9 km
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Lynn's Place
30.4 km
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Boss Hogg's BBQ Shack
30.6 km
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The Peddler Steakhouse
31.4 km
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The Park Grill
31.5 km
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Crockett's Breakfast Camp
31.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cades Cove Campground Store and Bike Rental
6.0 km
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The Potter's Bench
8.4 km
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Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe
10.8 km
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The Dancing Bean
10.9 km
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Cades Cove Jeep Outpost
13.6 km
Discover unique apparel and car accessories at Cades Cove Jeep Outpost, the ultimate stop for adventure enthusiasts in Townsend, Tennessee.
Tail of the Dragon
15.9 km
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Rocky Top Country Store
19.3 km
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Harper Bros. General Merchandise Store
19.6 km
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Mountain Brothers General Store
21.5 km
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Honeysuckle Rose Boutique
24.3 km
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Puzzled
28.4 km
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Tuesday’s Boutique
29.0 km
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Antique Mall
29.9 km
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Lanier's General Store
30.0 km
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Giftville
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Little River Pub and Deli
11.4 km
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The Abbey at the Heartland Chapel
12.5 km
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Peaceful Side Social | Townsend
13.2 km
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Company Distilling
14.3 km
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Snoring Bear Diner
16.9 km
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Irish Pub & Sports Grill
20.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Ireland at the Irish Pub & Sports Grill in Maryville, a perfect blend of good food, drinks, and sports excitement.
Brackins Blues Club
21.4 km
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Two Doors Down
21.5 km
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Waterfront Bar & Grill
21.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at Waterfront Bar & Grill, your go-to destination for dining in Maryville.
Par-T-Pub
22.2 km
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Salty Bear
31.6 km
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Dude's Daiquiris
31.9 km
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Shamrock Pub
32.0 km
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Old smokey barrelhouse
32.3 km
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Boudicca's Celtic Pub
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Deere Trax Inn
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Hard Rock Cafe
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El Pulpo Loco
36.9 km
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Acoustic Lobby
37.2 km
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Snuggled Inn
37.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Snuggled Inn, Sevierville's premier night club for unforgettable evenings of music, dancing, and fun.
Deer vista
38.6 km
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CORE Knoxville
41.1 km
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Yacht Club
41.1 km
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Eros Knoxville
41.5 km
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Five Thirty Lounge
41.7 km
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Knox Box Karaoke
41.8 km
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Radius Rooftop Lounge
41.8 km
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Peter Kern Library
41.8 km
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Fat Tuesday Knoxville
41.9 km
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Preservation Pub
41.9 km
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