Cades Cove is a beautiful area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park with lots to see and do, so you'll want to spend a lot of time exploring. If you want to save some money on parking during your visit, we've got you covered with some helpful tips. Just keep reading to find out how to avoid parking fees in Cades Cove:
1. Explore From Your Car
Visitors are not required to have a parking pass if they are just driving around the park. This means that you can enjoy Cades Cove Loop Road without paying a parking fee. You’ll be able to take your time along the 11-mile route looking at all the historical buildings, such as the John Oliver Cabin. Admire all the tall trees and wildflowers along the ground. Catch a glimpse of mountain peaks in the distance. There may even be wildlife wandering about. While the area is known for its large population of black bears, deer and wild turkey inhabit this part of GSMNP as well.
2. Take Advantage of No Entrance Fee Days
Most national parks around the country charge visitors an entrance fee; however, on certain days of the year, the National Park Service doesn’t charge the entrance fee. Because Great Smoky Mountains National Park has never had an entrance fee, the NPS waives the parking fee on “free entrance” days, including:
- Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday)
- Memorial Day
- Flag Day
- Independence Day Weekend
- Birthday of the National Park Service (August 25th)
- Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- Veterans Day
No Entrance Fee Days are popular, and Cades Cove is the most visited area of the park, so it is best to get there early. Enjoy mild temperatures and take in the peaceful scenery. If you arrive really early, you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant sunrise.
3. Stop at Buildings for Less Than 15 Minutes
Visitors are also not required to have a parking pass if they park for less than 15 minutes. The Cades Cove Loop has many structures and buildings that you can explore. One of them is the Becky Cable House. It was built in 1879 and later bought by brother and sister, John and Rebecca Cable. After John died, Rebecca never married and took over the upkeep of the house. You can see her father’s gristmill and browse the visitor center nearby as well! Other buildings to check out are the historical churches in Cades Cove. They all still have church pews and a preacher’s stand!
4. Take a Hiking Shuttle
A great way to avoid parking fees in Cades Cove and use a convenient local service is a hiking shuttle! Many hiking trails in and around Cades Cove are popular and have limited space for parking at the trailheads. Various local companies provide rides to and from trailheads such as Abrams Falls. No more waiting around to find a parking spot!
Ready to Explore Cades Cove?
Even though a parking tag is required in Cades Cove, there are still plenty of ways to explore the area without paying to park. Learn more about Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains and plan your visit today!
