Whether you are an avid visitor to Cades Cove or just planning your first trip, everyone should know about the guidelines for visiting the area. The National Park Service has specific rules in place to keep everybody safe and the national park protected for present and future enjoyment. Read on to learn more about the most important rules to follow when visiting Cades Cove:
1. Stay 150+ Feet Away From Wildlife
Cades Cove is known for its rich population of wildlife. Black bears, deer, and turkeys wander around the area. If you have the opportunity to see any animals, you must maintain a distance of 150 feet or more. Bring a pair of binoculars to get the best look from far away. To avoid attracting wildlife, keep any open food in a closed place. Deer and black bears have a keen sense of smell and can track the scent for many miles. Refrain from feeding the animals as well, as human food can be harmful to them.
2. Leave No Trace
Even if you don’t see any animals while in Cades Cove, you should still follow the Leave No Trace law. It says that visitors leave the area exactly as they found it. Follow these tips to be respectful of the wildlife and keep the area scenic for the next visitors:
- Don’t Pick the Wildflowers: Picking Smoky Mountain wildflowers in the area is prohibited. They only bloom for a short period of time, and all visitors should enjoy their full beauty.
- Replace Any Overturned Rocks and Sticks: While exploring, put any overturned rocks or sticks back the way you found them. If there are creatures hiding underneath, don’t move them.
- Pick Up Any Litter: Don’t leave any trash behind. Dispose of any litter or trash in the bear-proof trash cans throughout the area.
3. Don’t Hike At Night
Another rule to follow while in Cades Cove is to avoid hiking at night. The temperatures can drop significantly, and it is harder to see the signs on the trails that tell you where to go. Begin your hike early if the route is longer. You will have ample time to explore and rest along the way if needed. It will also give you the best chance of getting a good parking spot at the trailhead before you set off.
4. Keep Pets in Designated Areas
Everyone can enjoy the beauty of Cades Cove, even our four-legged friends. If you want to explore Cades Cove with your fur baby, please keep them in designated areas only. This means they are permitted in the picnic area and frontcountry campgrounds and can stay in the vehicle with you as you’re driving through the loop. They are not allowed on any hiking trails in Cades Cove or outside at any of the historic sites or cabins along the loop road. Additionally, all dogs must be on a short leash (no more than 6 feet). Pick up after your pet and make sure they have plenty of water.
Learn more: Dogs in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Plan a Visit to Cades Cove
Now you know some helpful rules to follow when visiting Cades Cove. Let us help you plan your trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park with this list of things you should do before visiting Cades Cove!
