The Smoky Mountains are a popular destination in the fall, and Cades Cove is a must-visit stop. Cades Cove is a beautiful place to experience all year round, but its beauty especially shines in the fall. Here are a few of the reasons why you should visit Cades Cove in the fall this year.
1. Beautiful Fall Colors
Cades Cove is a gorgeous place to visit no matter the time of year, but it’s especially breathtaking in the fall. As you drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road, you’ll be surrounded by fall foliage all around. From mid- to late October into November, the leaves change from shades of green to bright yellows, oranges, and reds. You can also catch views of the surrounding mountains painted in brilliant fall colors. Bring a camera to capture the beauty all around you at the many picture-perfect photo opportunities in Cades Cove in the fall.
2. Pleasant Weather
Not only does fall bring beautiful colors, but it also brings beautiful weather. The temperatures start to cool off in early fall, with daytime temperatures in the 70s and nighttime temperatures dropping to the 40s and 50s. These pleasant temperatures let you enjoy being outdoors without getting too hot. This means it’s an especially great idea to go hiking, horseback riding, or picnicking in Cades Cove in the fall because you’ll have the perfect weather for enjoying the fresh air. Fall is also a relatively dry season in the Smoky Mountains, which means you won’t have to worry about getting rained out of your favorite outdoor activities.
3. Fun Outdoor Activities
Because the weather is so nice in Cades Cove in the fall, you’ll be able to enjoy spending time outside exploring all the fun things to do. One of the best fall activities in Cades Cove is hiking. There are so many great hiking trails, including Abrams Falls Trail, Rich Mountain Loop Trail, Cooper Road Trail, Spence Field Trail, and more. You’ll be immersed in all the colors of fall and amazing natural scenery as you hike along these trails. Another fun outdoor activity in Cades Cove in the fall is horseback riding. This is a great way to get out in the fresh air and see fall foliage from a unique vantage point on the back of a horse.
4. Opportunities to See Wildlife
One of the best seasons to see wildlife in the Smoky Mountains is fall. Animals like black bears, turkeys, deer, woodpeckers, and more are pretty active in Cades Cove in the fall. You’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife from the comfort and safety of your vehicle as you drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road. These animals enjoy being out in the cooler weather just like you do. The best times to spot wildlife are early in the morning and late in the evening when they are most active. Just make sure you leave a safe, respectful distance at all times when viewing any type of wildlife.
5. Historical Structures
Another reason why you should visit Cades Cove in the fall is to explore the historical sites. You can find old churches, cabins, grist mills, barns, and cemeteries to explore the rich history of the area. You’ll get a glimpse into what life was like for the original settlers who first inhabited the area in the early 1800s. You can take great photos of these historical structures surrounded by fall leaves. Some of these structures even allow you to step inside to explore their interiors.
Explore Cades Cove This Fall
There are so many great things to see and experience in Cades Cove in the fall. A favorite fall activity for visitors is driving the 11-mile scenic loop. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, you should pick up the Cades Cove driving tour booklet and use it as a guide as you explore all there is to see and do in Cades Cove!
