Cades Cove Scenic Loop, Great Smoky Mountains Travel Guide

4.7 (2053)

Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cades Cove Scenic Loop in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Cades Cove Scenic Loop is a breathtaking drive in the Great Smoky Mountains, offering stunning views, wildlife encounters, and rich history, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

A brief summary to Cades Cove Scenic Loop

Cades Cove Loop Rd, Townsend, Tennessee, 37882, US
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Monday 6:30 am-8 pm
Tuesday 6:30 am-8 pm
Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
Thursday 6:30 am-8 pm
Friday 6:30 am-8 pm
Saturday 6:30 am-8 pm
Sunday 6:30 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cades Cove Scenic Loop.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks for a delightful outdoor meal.
Consider biking the loop for a more intimate experience with the natural surroundings.
Check visitor center hours for ranger-led programs that offer deeper insights into the cove's history and ecology.
Plan for potential traffic during peak season; visiting during weekdays may provide a quieter experience.

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Explore Cades Cove Scenic Loop on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cades Cove Scenic Loop, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If you're driving from Gatlinburg, take US-441 N towards Pigeon Forge. Continue on US-441 N for about 12 miles. Merge onto TN-73 W (Lamar Alexander Pkwy) and follow it for approximately 10 miles until you reach the intersection with US-321 N. Turn left onto US-321 N and drive for about 4 miles. Look for signs directing you to Cades Cove on your right. Follow Cades Cove Loop Rd to reach the scenic loop. The drive offers beautiful views, so be sure to enjoy the scenery along the way!
Car

From Knoxville, take I-40 E and exit at 407 towards Sevierville. Merge onto TN-66 S (Winfield Dunn Pkwy) and continue onto US-441 S. After about 14 miles, turn right onto TN-73 W. After driving for approximately 10 miles, turn left onto US-321 N. Continue for about 4 miles, then look for the signs to Cades Cove on your right. Follow the signs to Cades Cove Loop Rd.
Public Transportation

If you're using public transportation, take the Smoky Mountain Transit bus from Gatlinburg to Townsend. This service typically runs during peak tourist seasons, so check the schedule in advance. Once you arrive in Townsend, you may need to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get to the entrance of Cades Cove Loop Rd, as public transport options may be limited directly to the loop.
Car

From Pigeon Forge, take the Parkway (US-441 S) towards Gatlinburg. About 3 miles past Pigeon Forge, turn right onto TN-73 W (Lamar Alexander Pkwy). Follow TN-73 W for about 10 miles, then turn left onto US-321 N. Continue for about 4 miles, where you will see signs for Cades Cove. Turn right onto Cades Cove Loop Rd and enjoy your visit!

Discover more about Cades Cove Scenic Loop

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove Scenic Loop is an enchanting 11-mile drive that captivates visitors with its stunning vistas and abundant wildlife. This scenic route showcases the natural beauty of the Smokies, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the serene landscape filled with rolling hills, sprawling meadows, and majestic mountain backdrops. Along the way, travelers may encounter a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.Cades Cove is not just about breathtaking scenery; it also offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area. As you traverse the loop, you'll discover historic homesteads, churches, and a gristmill that date back to the early 19th century. These preserved structures provide insight into the lives of the early settlers, making history come alive as you explore the past. The visitor center provides additional context, with exhibits that showcase the cultural heritage and natural history of this remarkable region.For those seeking adventure, Cades Cove offers a network of hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to experience the area up close. Whether you're picnicking by the river, biking along the scenic route, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, Cades Cove Scenic Loop is a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.