If you are looking to get out and discover some of the incredible beauty that the Smoky Mountains have to offer while you are here in the area, you will certainly want to head over to visit Cades Cove during your stay! This natural paradise has so much to offer, from hiking trails, to historic sites, to opportunities to spot wildlife, and more. However, since Cades Cove has so much to offer, we thought it might be helpful to share some of the top places that we would recommend exploring when you decide to visit Cades Cove! Let’s get started:
1. Cades Cove Visitor Center
When you visit Cades Cove, one spot that you will likely want to make a stop is at the Cades Cove Visitor Center. Not only can you chat with park staff and learn about the area’s history, you will also be able to browse the park bookstore and shop, which can be a great opportunity to pick up a souvenir! In addition, the Cades Cove Visitor Center has maps, trash cans, and restrooms, making it a convenient spot to stop.
2. John Oliver Cabin
As one of the oldest structures at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it is no surprise that the John Oliver Cabin is also among the top spots to explore when you visit Cades Cove. The cabin was lived in by John and Lucretia Oliver, settlers who moved to Cades Cove in the 1820s, and is maintained to this day by the National Park Service.
3. Abrams Falls Trail
For those looking to head out on the trails and explore the natural beauty of the area, Abrams Falls Trail is an ideal option! This 5-mile round-trip hike leads to the waterfall with the greatest volume of water of any of the waterfalls at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while also offering views of a pine-oak forest, Abrams Creek, and more.
4. Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church
Another interesting structure that you can explore when you visit Cades Cove is the Primitive Baptist Church, which has stood in the area since the 1880s, when it was built by hand by the area’s settlers. Visitors to the area enjoy stopping by the Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church to see the settler’s work, and there are even still sometimes religious events held at the church to this day.
We hope that you find this list of places to explore when you visit Cades Cove useful as you plan your next getaway to the area! Whether you decide to spend your afternoon hiking to beautiful sights, checking out historic buildings, or something else, we are confident that you will have a great time when you visit Cades Cove. If you are interested in coming to visit the area, make sure to reserve your Smoky Mountain rental cabin soon so that you will be able to choose your ideal location among our selection! We can’t wait to welcome you to the Smokies.
