You may know that Cades Cove is the most visited place in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it’s also one of the most popular places for a scenic drive. If you want to enjoy the fresh air, you can still use this road to access hiking trails. Read on to learn more about them. Here is a list of 3 hiking trails that are accessible from Cades Cove Loop Road:
1. Cades Cove Nature Trail
The Cades Cove Nature Trail is a great route for anyone who wants an easy and scenic hike. The trailhead is located about 7 miles into the loop road. It is 2 miles roundtrip minimal elevation gain. There are tall trees along the path with leaves that provide shade in the summer months. You’ll also come across several creek crossings. Stand on the bridge to admire all the fish swimming about. There is no wrong time to hike the Cades Cove Nature Trail because it boasts magnificent views year-round, such as wildflowers and fall foliage!
2. Abrams Falls Trail
Another trail that is accessible from the loop road is the Abrams Falls Trail. The hike and waterfall are named after a Cherokee chief who lived in the area long ago. The hike is 5.2 miles roundtrip. The waterfall is located 2.6 miles from the trailhead at the end of a short side trail. There is a sandy area that offers great views. While Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, it has an impressive volume of water. Look for otters and salamanders in and along the water. Wear sturdy shoes to maintain your balance. While it’s fun to explore on the shore, keep in mind that swimming in Abrams Falls is prohibited due to the strong undertow.
3. Gregory Bald Trail
The trailhead for the Gregory Bald Trail is located at Sams Gap. You can get to it by taking Forge Creek Road at the halfway point of the loop road. The trail is strenuous at 8.8 miles roundtrip with 2,300 feet of elevation gain. The reward is a scenic meadow with breathtaking views. The best time to hike this trail is during the summer when the flaming azaleas are in bloom. Snap a few photos of the pretty colors. Picking the flowers is prohibited, as they only bloom for a short time, and we want all visitors to enjoy them.
Things to Remember When Hiking in Cades Cove
- Arrive Early: Cades Cove is a popular place, and parking is limited. Arrive early in the morning to beat some of the crowd!
- Get a Parking Pass: While you don’t need a Smoky Mountains parking pass for a scenic drive on Cades Cove Loop Road, you are required to have one if you park your vehicle for longer than 15 minutes.
- Check for Road Closures: Some parts of Cades Cove, including hiking trails, close seasonally during the winter months, which may require you to take alternate routes.
More Hikes Along Cades Cove Loop Road
If you liked these recommendations, read about another trail that can be reached from Cades Cove Loop Road, the Wet Bottom Trail!
