Are you planning a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains and wondering, When is the best time to visit Cades Cove? The short answer is that there is no “right” time to visit Cades Cove. Rather, it depends on what activities you want to do! You’ll be happy to know that there are fun things to do in Cades Cove all year; yes, even in the winter! Read on to learn more about Cades Cove activities by season:
Best Times for Hiking
The best times to hike in Cades Cove are in the spring and fall. This is when the temperatures in the area tend to be on the milder side. You’ll also have the opportunity to see some stunning scenery. There are colorful wildflowers that bloom out of the ground in the spring. When the temperatures cool off in the fall, the green leaves on the branches of the tall trees take on fiery hues. One easy hiking trail that allows you to see everything is the Cades Cove Nature Trail. The route is only 2 miles, and the terrain is flat. The trailhead can be found at about 7 miles into Cades Cove Loop Road!
Biking During Vehicle Free Days
The best times for seasonal activities such as biking in Cades Cove are in the summer and early fall! The National Park Service has enacted Vehicle-Free Wednesdays in Cades Cove from June through September. Bring your own bike or use one of the area’s convenient rentals during your visit. Visitors love being able to bike on the open road without having to watch for cars! You can even walk the loop if you would prefer to take your time and explore Cades Cove Tennessee that way!
Horseback Riding
A seasonal Cades Cove activity is horseback riding, and the Cades Cove Riding Stables is open from March through November, offering guided tours of the area on horseback. There is no prior experience necessary. The staff will help you choose the best horse for your skill level. While helmets are provided, riders should wear long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots. In addition to horseback riding, Cades Cove Riding Stables also offers hay rides and carriage rides. There is no shortage of unique ways to explore the area!
More Year-Round Activities
No matter what time of year you come to Cades Cove, there will always be fun things to do. One great year-round activity is checking out the Cades Cove Visitors Center. Pick up maps and buy books to learn more about the area. You can also have your questions answered directly by a knowledgeable park ranger. Additionally, stop by the Becky Cable House and the John Cable Mill while you’re here. You can even see the gristmill in action during the spring and summer!
Another year-round activity is driving on Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11-mile route that is jam-packed with awesome sights. See the sprawling natural scenery, historical buildings, and even wildlife. Enjoy it all from the comfort of your own vehicle, no matter what the weather is like outside, especially during the winter, when Cades Cove transforms into a winter wonderland! Read more about why you should visit Cades Cove in winter!
Seasonal activities in Cades Cove make this area of the national park the ideal place to go throughout the year when you need to escape to the mountains. Find out our top tips for avoiding peak crowds in Cades Cove so you can make the most of your visit regardless of the time of year!
