If you’re planning a family vacation to the Smoky Mountains and want to explore Cades Cove Loop Road, you might be wondering if your kids will enjoy the 11-mile scenic loop. It generally takes about 2 to 4 hours to tour Cades Cove, and the last thing you want is the kids sitting in the back seat complaining that they are bored! The awesome news is that there are plenty of family-friendly activities along the loop, ranging from unique hikes to wildlife viewing! Here are 4 easy ways to keep your kids entertained while exploring the Cades Cove scenic loop:
1. Create a Fun Game to Enhance Your Experience
While your kids will probably love Cades Cove Loop Road, you can create a fun game to make the experience even more interesting! Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a Junior Ranger Program with Smokies Bingo and other activities, and you can even print a Junior Ranger badge for your kids to display! You can also consider creating your own game, such as a scavenger hunt with items that you are likely to encounter during your trip!
2. Burn Off Some Energy with a Family Friendly Hike
We know that kids are always full of energy, so they’ll appreciate one of the many family-friendly hikes in Cades Cove! Take a break from the car ride along the Cades Cove scenic loop to stretch your legs for a bit and enjoy a beautiful hiking trail. This is an exciting opportunity to discover wildflowers, waterfalls, historical structures, and perhaps even some wildlife! Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, bears, coyotes, turkeys, and other critters along the trails!
3. Explore the Cades Cove Scenic Loop by Bike
As an alternative to driving your vehicle along the Cades Cove scenic loop, take your bikes along for the adventure! If you don’t have your own bikes available, you can rent a bike at the Cades Cove Campground Store! You are permitted to ride bikes along the loop road anytime that the road is open, but just remember to wear a helmet and stay aware of the traffic! Many families prefer to bike the loop on the vehicle-free Wednesdays that run from early May to late September.
4. Enjoy a Stop at the Cades Cove Visitor Center
Another easy way to keep your kids entertained while exploring the Cades Cove scenic loop is with a stop at the Cades Cove Visitor Center! This facility is located about halfway along the loop road and features exhibits about southern life and culture, as well as historic structures such as a gristmill and the Becky Cable House. Your kids will enjoy browsing through the bookstore and gift shop, where they can find a Smoky Mountain souvenir to take back home!
Now that you know how to keep your kids entertained while exploring the Cades Cove scenic loop, you’re ready for the perfect family adventure in the Smokies! Learn some of the reasons why your family will love visiting Cades Cove!
