Cades Cove In The Smoky Mountains
You can practically time travel to the 18th century – without a time machine.
How? Just take a trip to Cades Cove.
It’s like you walk into the past, around the 1800s, with all these old-timey cabins, cute churches, and massive barns that look straight out of an old Western flick. And there’s a mill that still works – it’s pretty awesome.
For the whole blast-to-the-past experience, drive the Cades Cove Loop early in the morning. The Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11-mile, one-way route, is your scenic passage through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As you drive, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of mountain peaks, vibrant wildflower meadows, and expansive green landscapes.
And get this – the place is spread over 6,800 acres! It’s the hotspot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Wildlife is everywhere – deer, coyotes, elk, foxes, and even black bears! The best times to spot the bears are late summer and early fall, especially in the late afternoon or evening.
After soaking up the history and scenic view, stretch your legs on the trailhead to a gorgeous 20-foot waterfall. It is just one of many hiking trails that allow you to take in Cades Cove’s natural splendor.
You’ll also find places for camping and picnics, allowing you to spend the day or even stay overnight. It’s a fantastic spot for stargazing – imagine lying back and gazing up at the stars.
Hitting up Cades Cove isn’t just a regular trip; it’s like stepping into a little slice of history mixed with a nature getaway. You’ll come back with some incredible stories and feel super chilled out after a day surrounded by nature and a bit of history.