If you are looking for the perfect family adventure during your visit to Cades Cove, consider one of the scenic horse-drawn carriage rides! This is the perfect option for those who are not into horseback riding but want to explore some of the beautiful forest trails throughout the Cove! No reservations are required to join the fun, so just show up when you are ready to experience your relaxing journey! Here are the top 3 things to know about the Cades Cove carriage rides:
1. What to Expect
The Cades Cove carriage rides are guided rides through the idyllic winding forest trails of Cades Cove! While kicking back on your adventure, your knowledgeable carriage driver will entertain you with tales of the history of the area while pointing out the native plant and animal life! You never know what wildlife you might spot in the area, and Cades Cove is one of the best wildlife-viewing destinations in the national park! The beautiful carriage horses lead your journey and offer a glimpse into how things were done in the past. When planning out your day in the Cove, keep in mind that carriage rides are 30 to 45 minutes in length. Note that there are no weight or age limits, so bring the whole family along for the fun!
2. Hours, Location & Pricing Information
You’ll find the carriage rides available at the Cades Cove Riding Stables, which is the only park-authorized riding stables of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Cades Cove. The stables are located near the entrance to the Cades Cove Loop (by the Cades Cove Campground), at 10018 Campground Drive, Townsend TN 37882. The carriage rides are available from 9 AM to 4:30 PM daily from March 3 to November 30, with departures throughout the day. No reservations are accepted for the rides, and all rides are subject to weather and trail conditions. The rates for ages 13 and over are $27 per person, while ages 2 to 12 are $15.00 per person.
3. About the Cades Cove Area
Cades Cove is a scenic valley surrounded on all sides by mountains south of Townsend, Tennessee, and is one of the most popular destinations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! There is an 11-mile, one-way loop road that surrounds the valley and provides access to multiple hiking trails, fascinating historical structures, wildlife viewing opportunities, and more! The area is also home to an excellent visitor center, as well as a campground and picnic area. You’ll find the Cades Cove Visitor Center about halfway along the loop road, where you can take a break to talk to park staff, see a gristmill, visit the Becky Cable House, and learn about southern mountain life and culture!
The Cades Cove carriage rides are just one of the many fun ways to explore the beauty of the Cove! Whether you choose to enjoy this spectacular area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park by horseback, bicycle, or vehicle, you don’t want to miss all of the amazing things that you can see along Cades Cove Loop Road!
