Cades Cove Tennessee in the Smoky Mountains is very big, a 6,800-acre valley to be exact. If you don’t enjoy long hikes, you may be wondering how you’ll get around the area to see everything during your visit. We’ve got you covered! Just read on to learn more about a few unique and exciting ways to get around Cades Cove:
1. Take a Bus or Jeep Tour
One of the best ways to explore Cades Cove is by taking a bus or Jeep tour. The bus tour is a big group of people and sticks to the main roads. You may find a new friend in the person sitting next to you! On the other hand, the Jeep tours are a lot smaller and can go off-road. It is an ideal activity for a small travel group. Pink Adventure Tours does a tour of Cades Cove in a glass-roofed PanoramaVan! Both options allow you to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll also ride with a knowledgeable tour guide who will tell you more information about what you’re seeing. You may learn something new!
2. Drive a Scenic Route
If you don’t want to get stuck in traffic along the Cades Cove Loop, you can explore alternate scenic drive routes, one of which is Rich Mountain Road. This one-way gravel road branches off Cades Cove Loop and runs for 7 miles. It ends in Townsend TN. You can find the entrance across from the Missionary Baptist Church. One of the highlights of Rich Mountain Road is the scenic overlook that provides a stunning view of the Primitive Baptist Church. Another alternate way out of Cades Cove is Parson Branch Road. It is a one-way gravel road that exits Cades Cove and leads to US 129. Along the way, you’ll see lots of trees and shallow streams! Keep in mind that Parson Branch Road is open seasonally, from April through November!
3. Go Horseback Riding
Do you want to explore Cades Cove Tennessee on the back of a majestic four-legged friend? If so, you should go horseback riding at Cades Cove Riding Stables! This seasonal activity is available to visitors from March through November. You will be able to see the scenery from new heights as you sit tall on the back of a well-trained horse. You won’t have to worry about getting lost because a tour guide will show you the way. Along with horseback riding, Cades Cove Riding Stables offers carriage and hay rides as well. Everyone will be able to find an experience to enjoy!
4. Do Ranger-Led Activities
Cades Cove has a lot of knowledgeable park rangers. One way they help visitors is by leading activities for the public! These ranger-led programs are offered seasonally, from June to October! They are free to do and take place all around Cades Cove, such as at the John Oliver Cabin. Some events are talks and demonstrations, like milling at the Cable Mill, while others are short guided tours or hikes.
Now you know some alternate ways to get around Cades Cove. Take a look at our Cades Cove Tennessee maps to see all that this popular area in the Great Smoky Mountains has to offer!
