Whether you are an avid hiker in the Cades Cove area or new to hiking and need an easy trail, you should know about the Wet Bottom Trail! You will enjoy this hiking experience no matter what your level of expertise is. It’s one of the best easy hikes in Cades Cove that everyone can love, so keep reading for everything you need to know about the Wet Bottom Trail:
Directions to the Trailhead
The trailhead for the Wet Bottom Trail is located on the eastern end of Cades Cove Loop Road, a short distance from the Missionary Baptist Church. You can either start at the Cooper Road trailhead or go a bit further until you reach the Elijah Oliver Place access trail. Both areas have pull-offs for parking, and either path will lead you to the Wet Bottom Trailhead.
If you visit on a Vehicle-Free Wednesday in Cades Cove during the summer, keep in mind that parking may be limited. Before setting off, you’ll need a Smoky Mountain parking tag on your vehicle. Purchase yours online or at a visitor center, or at one of the kiosks scattered throughout the park.
What to Expect
The Wet Bottom Trail is considered one of the easy Cades Cove hikes, as it is just over 1 mile long. You’ll start on the Cooper Road Trail and then travel for less than a mile before seeing the sign for the Wet Bottom Trail. This route serves as a connector trail between the Cooper Road and the Abrams Falls trails. You can expect flat terrain with little to no elevation gain, but the path can be muddy and a little slippery after a heavy rain, so be sure to wear hiking boots to keep your feet warm and dry!
Highlights of the Wet Bottom Trail
While the Wet Bottom is a short trail, visitors love it for the rich historical scenery. One structure to look out for is the Elijah Oliver Cabin. The namesake and builder was the son of one of the first settlers in Cades Cove, John Oliver. The Elijah Oliver Cabin was constructed in 1866. The structure is actually 2 cabins that share a common breezeway. It also had a small room off the front porch to accommodate settlers who would come through the area. As you’re exploring the property, you’ll also come across a springhouse. Before refrigerators were invented, the small structure kept perishable foods cold. It also preserved fresh drinking water as well. The springhouse near the Elijah Oliver Cabin is the only one remaining in Cades Cove.
You may also have the chance to see some wildlife during your hike. Cades Cove is known for its significant black bear activity. If you see one, be sure to maintain a distance of 150 feet or more. It is also important to keep any food contained. Bears have a strong sense of smell, and the food scents may attract them.
We hope you enjoyed learning all about the Wet Bottom Trail. Want to know about more easy hikes in Cades Cove? Read up on the Pine Oak Nature Trail!
