While it may be chilly outside, winter is still a great time to visit Cades Cove. This is because the area looks like a real-life winter wonderland. You will be amazed when you see it! Whether you need more convincing or help planning your time there, we can help! Here is a list of 3 reasons why Cades Cove is the perfect spot to visit during winter:
1. Enjoy The Scenery From Your Car & Go To The Visitors Center
When you visit Cades Cove in the winter, enjoy views from the warmth of your car when you travel on Cades Cove Loop Road. It is an 11-mile loop that is jam-packed with sights. One of the highlights is the many historical buildings. One of them is the John Oliver Cabin, and it is the oldest human structure in the park. The cabin’s namesake built it for himself and his wife when they settled in the area around the 1820s. Another structure to look out for is the Primitive Baptist Church. It was built in 1827 and made history as the first church in Cades Cove. Before that, settlers would travel to each other’s houses to hold Sunday Service. Another way to stay warm is by going inside the Cades Cove Visitors Center. Knowledgeable park staff can answer questions about the area. There are also interesting exhibits and a bookstore as well.
2. See Beautiful Snowy Views & Wildlife
Cades Cove has some beautiful snowy views to admire during the winter. See the snow fall softly onto the ground. You may also spot icicles hanging from the trees. They form when melting snow or ice freezes and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. The snowy atmosphere is home to all kinds of wildlife, and you may have a chance to see some. While black bears in the Smokies don’t hibernate, they may not be as active; however, lots of other creatures still come out to enjoy the snow. One of them is the wild turkey. They are the largest bird in the park. The males weigh up to 24 pounds while females weigh up to 12. You may see them pecking around in the low fields or resting in the trees to conserve energy. One way they keep warm is by fluffing up their feathers to trap air as insulation. This helps them retain body heat. Other animals you may see include coyotes, white-tailed deer, and even otters.
3. Most Popular Road Open During Winter
Cades Cove Loop Road is the most popular road in the national park that stays open during winter. Since it doesn’t close seasonally like other areas, visitors love coming to the Cove and experiencing everything it has to offer during the colder months. If you’re in the area during a period of heavy snow, stay up to date with the latest road conditions and weather-related closures via the National Park Service website. Sometimes they may choose to temporarily close the scenic loop road to keep everyone safe from the potentially hazardous conditions.
Now you know all the reasons to visit Cades Cove this winter. Check out our other list of FAQs about visiting Cades Cove in winter!
