While Cades Cove is known for its great hiking trails, it also has many scenic roads for driving too! Hyatt Lane is one of the “shortcut roads” along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop, but there is another: Sparks Lane! Keep reading for more details about how this road gets its name, what you’ll see along the way, plus a few tips for visiting!
How Sparks Lane Got Its Name
Before the Great Smoky Mountains became a national park, the road that would later be named Sparks Lane was useful for the settlers in Cades Cove. It allowed for a shortcut across the vast valley. People in the community rode horses or walked to get around. The road received its name from a family who called this area home. James Sparks was born in 1806 and later moved to Cades Cove. He raised 10 children with his wife here. They lived and worked in the open fields beside the path.
No historical structures remain here today, but the property along Sparks Lane used to have both a house and a working farm. There could have been other structures too, such as a springhouse, which would have been used to keep perishable goods cold! A corn crib was another popular addition. It protected farm crops from animals. Imagine how cool it would be to see the beauty of Cades Cove as you go about your day!
Driving the Shortcut
Sparks Lane is the first cut-through on the loop road! It is located about 1 mile past the Cades Cove Loop entrance. The road has an open field with a shallow creek. You may have the exciting opportunity to see some wildlife here. Black bears and deer are popular animals in the area. Look out ahead to see the mountain peaks. Drive under the canopy of trees for a break from the sunlight. The road itself has historic pastoral fencing on the sides. It is no surprise that Sparks Lane is one of the most photographed places in the park. Put on some music, roll down your window to let the air in, and clear your mind on a nice, leisurely drive!
Tips for Visiting Sparks Lane
- No Parking Pass Required: Visitors who are driving around Cades Cove do not need a parking pass.
- Get There Early for Photography: If you plan to photograph the area, it is best to arrive early to dodge some of the traffic. Wildlife tends to be more active in the morning, and you can get some shots of the sunrise.
- Obey Traffic: Maintain your speed and avoid stopping. This way, there won’t be any unnecessary backups. Be mindful of visitors on foot and bikers.
- Pets: You can have your dog in the vehicle as you drive along Sparks Lane. Note that they are not permitted on any Cades Cove hiking trails.
Other Scenic Roads in Cades Cove
We hope you enjoyed learning about Sparks Lane in Cades Cove. You’ll be happy to know that there are other scenic routes and another way out of the valley! Read up on Parson Branch Road!
