One of the best ways to explore Cades Cove Loop Road is by bicycle! You can ride bikes on the loop anytime that the road is open, so don’t miss the chance to pedal your way around this beautiful area of the National Park! You’ll not only avoid the traffic jams but can enjoy some great exercise and the joys of being in the great outdoors! If you don’t have your own bike available, you’ll be happy to know Cades Cove has a convenient bike rental facility! Here are the top 4 things you need to know about the Cades Cove bike rentals:
1. Where to Rent Bikes in Cades Cove
Cades Cove bike rentals are available at the Cades Cove Campground Store, which is signposted and situated just before the entrance to the Loop Road. There is a parking lot where you can leave your vehicle while you enjoy your bike ride, but note that parking can be somewhat limited and vehicle congestion in the park is often severe. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need a Parking Tag when planning to park anywhere within Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than 15 minutes!
2. Hours of Operation for Bike Rentals
Hours for the bike rentals at the Cades Cove Campground Store vary between spring, summer, and fall. You can rent between 9 AM and 3 PM from March 1 to May 31, and then from 9 AM and 4 PM from June 1 to September 1. The bikes are rented on a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure that you arrive early to secure your rental! Note that for vehicle-free Wednesdays in Cades Cove, which run from early May to late September, you can make reservations by calling the Campground Store at (865) 448-9034.
3. Types of Bikes and Equipment
Another one of the top things you need to know about the Cades Cove bike rentals is the types of bikes that are available! The adult fleet primarily consists of Fuji Barnaby bikes, which are considered comfort bikes (most of these have seven speeds, but some of them are single-speed). There are also children’s bike frames that are 16, 20”, and 24” so that you can bring the kids along for the fun (there is no minimum age requirement). Every bike is equipped with a water bottle holder and helmets are included in the rental price.
4. Exploring Cades Cove by Bike
The Cades Cove Loop Road is 11 miles, but there are turn-offs at two different points if you prefer a shorter bike ride. There are plenty of great reasons to go biking in Cades Cove, as you’ll discover numerous historic buildings that were the homes, churches, and workplaces of Cades Cove residents during the 19th and early 20th centuries! This area of the National Park also offers some excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, so keep your eyes open for white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, turkeys, and other wildlife!
Now that you know the details about the Cades Cove bike rentals, you’re all set to explore the Cades Cove Loop Road by bike this season! Before heading out, check out the interesting facts about Cades Cove history to gain some background knowledge of the area!
