to allow cyclists and hikers a vehicle-free visit. From May – September, the road is closed to motorists until 10:00 a.m. See the John Oliver Cabin, 3 classic churches, Cable Mill (the only working grist mill in the Smokies), the Dan Lawson Place, and many more!Ĭades Cove Loop Road is open daily from sunrise to sunset, as long as the weather agrees.

Should you come across a wild animal, be sure to share the road, give them the right of way, don’t feed them, and film (safely) the whole thing! Along Cades Cove Loop Road, you’ll come across many historic structures, each with a tale to tell. Keep an eye out for wildlife galore, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, black bears, bobcats, wild turkeys, coyotes, foxes, beavers, and all sorts of birds. Congestion is typical but gives everyone a chance to really soak in the valley scenery! The entire 1-way loop can take 2-4 hours to complete. Visitors are required to drive slowly and heed the guiding signs. Following alongside an old logging railroad track, prepare for a memorable and smooth ride on this 11-mile, paved loop road.

And if this popular driving loop isn’t enough, fill up your tank and explore other scenic drives near Pigeon Forge, TN! The Cades Cove Driveīegin your Cades Cove journey with a quick stop at the orientation shelter (towards the left near the entrance), where park rangers and staff are happy to answer questions and offer tips for your scenic drive. Snap shots of vivid wildflowers, rolling fluffy clouds against the bright blue sky, majestic mountain scenes, and historic sites. Spot white-tailed deer in the meadows, black bear cubs beneath the trees, wild turkeys on the trail, and foxes in the shadows. Roll down your windows, keep your eyes peeled, and whip out your best camera as you take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, a gorgeous valley area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

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