Cades Cove is far and away the most popular section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Over 2 million visitors frequent this breathtaking valley each year to see its historic buildings, gorgeous mountain views, and spectacular wildlife. While today it seems obvious that Cades Cove would become a can’t-miss attraction in the Smokies, the valley’s potential wasn’t always recognized….
The Cherokee people have deep roots in Cades Cove. Years before the first Euro-Americans settled in the cove, the Cherokee had their own village in the valley. Known as “Tsiya’hi,” which means “Otter Place,” the settlement was situated near streams that were teaming with otters. The name “Cades Cove” is taken from Chief Kade, the Cherokee leader of Tsiya’hi….
![John P. Cable Mill in Cades Cove Gets New Water Wheel [Video Included]](https://experiencecadescove.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/The-John-Cable-Mill-in-Cades-Cove-896x505.jpg)
One of the most iconic landmarks in the Smoky Mountains is getting a tune-up! This September, the John P. Cable Mill in Cades Cove will have its water wheel replaced for the first time in 18 years. Swapping out the historic gristmill’s water wheel is no easy task because a new wheel had to be built completely from scratch. Local reporter Jim Matheny recently visited Cades Cove to profile the construction of the new water wheel in a piece for WBIR News:…
Is Cades Cove haunted? We can’t say for sure (that’s a question for paranormal investigators), but we do know that there are a few Cades Cove ghost stories that have been told for decades around these parts. One of our favorite tall tales from the valley was transcribed in The Granny Curse and Other Ghosts and Legends from East Tennessee, a 1999 book by Janet Barnett and Randy Russell. Known as “The Cussing Cover,” this electrifying ghost story is perfect for your next campfire. Read on for our retelling of this classic yarn….
No matter the time of year that you visit, Cades Cove is always beautiful and each trip is unique! But even Cades Cove has times throughout the year that it becomes very busy! Learn the best times to visit Cades Cove if you want to avoid traffic, want to see wildlife, or take some stunning photos of the area! …
One of the most-visited places in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove Loop Road offers incredible opportunities to see historic sites, wildlife and more. When you drive along the 11-mile, one-way loop road, you’ll be able to see the sights from the comfort of your vehicle. Learn more about the Cades Cove hours before you go to determine the best time to drive through Cades Cove….
Beginning this spring, visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will have the chance to adopt black bear cubs as pets. The unprecedented new policy is part of the park’s effort to cut down on the number of abandoned bear cubs in Cades Cove. The National Park Service made the official announcement in a press release this morning. We have summarized the park’s new adoption initiative below….
Cades Cove is the most visited destination inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That’s because along the Cades Cove loop you will step back in time to explore pieces of early Appalachian history from rustic cabins to old barn. You will also be treated to views of the Smoky Mountains, beautiful valley views, and may even see native wildlife. …
Cades Cove is the most popular destination inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can explore primitive churches, rustic cabins, and other historical structures. Along the 11 mile loop you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the mountains and possibly spot local wildlife. There are some things to do in Cades Cove that you just have to try at least once while there! …
Cades Cove is one of the most popular destinations inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is full of natural wonder, and structures drenched in Appalachian history! There are many structures, walking trails, and pull offs that are worth exploring, but the cantilever barn in Cades Cove has a unique origin and design. It’s worth a stop to look at. …
