Hop In Your Car And Take The Cades Cove Loop For An Incredible 11-Mile Scenic Drive In Tennessee

One of the most beautiful natural areas in Tennessee is also one of the most historic. Cades Cove is known for a past that delves deep into Native American culture and provides ample opportunity for wildlife viewing and hiking. The area has long been known for its beauty, but visitors are happily surprised to find that you don’t have to schlep through the woods to experience all Cades Cove has to offer. No, the beautiful area is perfectly accessible by car, along the famed Cades Cove Loop. If you’re looking for a scenic experience here in Tennessee, this is it.

turcottes78 - Flickr

Cades Cove was originally used as a hunting ground by Cherokee Native Americans, although there is no evidence of a former village in the area. It seems as if the lush, stunning valley was teeming with wildlife, so it was the perfect place to hunt and gather necessities.

Tim Lumley - Flickr

It wasn't until the 19th century that European settlers made their way to the valley. Folks gathered in the area quickly, and as a part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove has the highest number of historic buildings still standing.

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turcottes78 - Flickr

In fact, there are still log houses, grist mills, a barn, and even three churches maintained for historic purposes in the area. When you enter the loop road, you can choose to pick up a self-guided booklet that will tell you all about the area as you drive.

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turcottes78 - Flickr

There are multiple trails to follow in Cades Cove as well, including the Abrams Falls Trail and Cades Cove Nature Trail. The Cades Cove Loop itself winds a solid 11 miles through the park, and you'll be able to see mountains, rolling hills, and gurgling streams.

Olin Gilbert - Flickr

Keep an eye out for road conditions! Since the area is tucked up high in the mountains, sometimes it gets a little difficult to navigate. There are times when the Cades Cove Loop is closed due to weather.

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In fact, two of the Cades Cove access roads are closed during the winter, so we'd recommend you come on by during the warmer seasons. The road is a one-way, one-lane road that takes roughly two to four hours to complete.

Arthur T. LaBar - Flickr.

The road winds gently, and you can expect to find many spots where you can stop and enjoy the view. The scenery is truly unbelievable, and we'd recommend visiting the Visitor Center along the way. Keep in mind, from May to September, only bikes and walkers are allowed on the Loop until 10 a.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The rest of the seasons is fair game, drivers!

Cades Cove truly offers an incredible experience, and you can learn more about hiking, camping, and the area’s history with a visit to the NPS official website.

There’s nothing better than a getaway, and the Cascade Hollow Lodge is truly unbelievable.