Cades Cove is a great place to visit on Valentine’s Day! There are so many beautiful sights to see and things to do with your sweetheart. If you plan on visiting the Smoky Mountains this Valentine’s Day, make sure you check out this list of romantic things to do in Cades Cove that you won’t want to miss!
1. Watch the Fog Rise After Sunrise
Cades Cove opens at sunrise each morning. If you want to enjoy romantic scenery with your valentine, arrive at Cades Cove right when it opens. As you drive through the cove, you’ll get to see the last remnants of sunrise and then watch as the early-morning fog rises from the ground. This is by far one of the most romantic things to do in Cades Cove to start your Valentine’s Day off on the right foot.
2. Hike to Abrams Falls
Another one of the romantic things to do in Cades Cove is hiking to Abrams Falls. A walk through the woods is a great way to spend quality time with your significant other and gives you a chance to talk and hold hands along your journey. When you reach Abrams Falls, you will get a breathtaking view of one of the most impressive waterfalls in the national park. This waterfall makes for a beautiful backdrop for a photo together to remember your Valentine’s Day. Sitting on the rocks as you watch and listen to the peaceful falls can be a romantic moment to share with your loved one.
3. Go on a Picnic
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Cades Cove, you can’t go wrong with a picnic. Pack your favorite foods and enjoy a meal while surrounded by the tranquility of nature. The Cades Cove Picnic Area is a great place to stop before or after your drive through Cades Cove and offers picnic tables as well as charcoal grills if you want to cook a hot meal for your Valentine’s Day date. You can also choose to enjoy your picnic meal in the comfort and privacy of your vehicle in one of the parking areas throughout the cove. Or, park your car and lay a blanket on the ground to have your picnic outdoors in nature. Just be sure to pick up any waste and never feed the wildlife.
4. Explore Historic Sites
Are you and your sweetheart interested in history? One of the romantic things to do in Cades Cove is explore the historic sites to learn more about the history of the area. Learning something new together can be a great way to grow closer and feel more connected to one another and to the Smoky Mountains. You can visit the historic cabins and grist mill to see how people used to live and gain an appreciation for the early settlers’ way of life. The old churches and cemeteries also provide insight and connection to the past. You may even get inspired to have a Cades Cove wedding at one of the historic churches!
5. Camp in Cades Cove Campground
If you’re looking for a place to stay for your Valentine’s Day trip, camp in the Cades Cove Campground. This is one of the most romantic things to do in Cades Cove because it allows you and your partner to spend quality time out in nature with just the two of you. Whether you stay in a tent or an RV, camping in Cades Cove is sure to bring you closer together. After the sun sets, you can sit outside and gaze up at the stars overhead, creating a truly romantic atmosphere.
More Places to Stay Near Cades Cove
If camping isn’t for you, don’t worry! There are plenty of other romantic places to stay near Cades Cove, including cozy cabins where you can cuddle up in front of a fireplace or relax together in the warmth of a hot tub. Take a look at our top recommendations for places to stay near Cades Cove so you can enjoy a peaceful, romantic getaway this Valentine’s Day.
