When you visit Cades Cove, the weather can affect what you do there. Even if the weather is not what you expect, you don’t have to be caught off guard, and you can still have fun. Be prepared for your next visit by reading this list of fun facts about Cades Cove weather:
1. The Weather Can Change Quickly
No matter what season it is, the Cades Cove weather can change quickly. In the spring, the weather can go from being warm and sunny to snow furries. In the summer, rain is very common, particularly in the afternoon. If you plan on spending a good amount of time outside, you don’t need to worry about the weather putting a damper on your visit when you have the right gear. First, make sure you have good hiking shoes to keep your feet warm and dry. They may also help you maintain your footing on rough terrain. Additionally, make sure you bring along a raincoat as well. If you don’t want to carry it, you can tie it around your waist to keep your hands free.
2. Fall is the Driest Season
The Cades Cove weather makes fall a popular time to visit. One reason is because the temperatures are milder. They are not as hot as the temperatures in July or August and not as cold as the winter temperatures. Compared to the other seasons, fall also brings significantly less rain. Additionally, the drop in temperature causes the color of the leaves to change. Visitors love hiking around this time of year because they see the beautiful fall foliage!
3. Winter is Moderate
Cades Cove is classified as a valley and has a lower elevation than some of the other areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Because of this, it doesn’t get as cold and receives less snow. When it does snow though, you’re in for beautiful sights of a real-life Winter Wonderland. When talking about the beauty of the natural scenery, it is important to note that the Cades Cove weather makes it beautiful any time of the year. For example, the spring and summer call for rich greenery and colorful wildflowers. On the other hand, when fall comes and the leaves change, it brings along different, but equally stunning colors of red, orange, and yellow.
4. Cades Cove Weather and Animals
Along with affecting the scenery and temperature, the Cades Cove weather also influences what animals you’ll see. In the warmer months, you may see horses grazing about, as the riding stables are open from mid-March to late November. You may also see black bears as well. In the fall, you may see (or hear) the largest bird in the park, the wild turkey. They clear the leaves away with their feet and look for food. Winter animals include coyotes and white-tailed deer.
Knowing as much as you can about the weather in Cades Cove will better prepare you for your trip and make it more enjoyable. If you want to know even more, here’s your complete guide to Cades Cove weather!
