Cades Cove is a scenic area that is ideal for visitors of all ages, including little ones. We can help you plan a memorable family trip to this popular area in the Smokies. So if you’re wondering what to do in Cades Cove with kids, let's start with these fun activity ideas:
1. Explore an Easy Hiking Trail
Cades Cove has some easy hiking trails that are well-suited for kids. One of them is the Pine Oak Nature Trail (often referred to as the Cades Cove Nature Trail). The route is less than 1 mile roundtrip with very little elevation gain. The trailhead can be accessed via the campground area, where you’ll walk through the beautiful forest area to enjoy the scenery. It looks beautiful throughout all the seasons! There are some streams along the way, perfect for salamander watching!
Speaking of wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for some birds, squirrels, white-tailed deer, and black bears, which are just a few of the popular residents. Remember, maintain a distance of 150 feet or more from any animals you see!
2. Drive the Scenic Loop Road
Families who don’t want to hike can still explore Cades Cove by taking a scenic drive in the comfort of their own vehicle. The 11-mile loop road is filled with natural scenery, wildlife sightings, and historical buildings that were built by settlers who lived in the area long before it was a national park. The National Park Service worked hard to preserve them for visitors today!
You can stop and walk around these unique buildings, such as the John Oliver Cabin, the oldest structure in GSMNP. The namesake and his wife were among the first settlers in Cades Cove. They helped establish the Primitive Baptist Church, which also sits on the loop. The couple and their children are buried in the cemetery next door.
Insider Tip: To avoid some of the traffic, consider taking an alternate route out of Cades Cove. See even more natural scenery and have a quieter drive home! We recommend Parson Branch Road. This is a one-way gravel road that leads to US 129.
3. Go on a Horseback Ride
A great warm-weather activity for kids is horseback riding. Cades Cove Riding Stables is open seasonally, offering guided horseback tours; kids as young as 5 can join! Don’t have any riding experience? No problem. The staff will teach you the basics. While helmets are provided, be sure to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. A guide will lead the way and answer any questions you have about the area.
Another idea for what to do in Cades Cove with kids? The stables also offer carriage and hay rides around the scenic loop road!
4. Spend the Night Under the Stars
All the fun can continue at the end of the day when you go camping in Cades Cove. The frontcountry campgrounds are best for families. Visitors camp close to their cars and have access to restrooms with cold running water. Kids will love sleeping in a tent and seeing all the stars in the sky. There are fire rings available where you can roast marshmallows and hot dogs. Keep in mind that the campsites do require a reservation and fee, so it is best to plan ahead!
Ready to Visit Cades Cove Tennessee?
Now that you know what to do in Cades Cove with kids, it’s time to learn more about the area. Here are some important rules to follow while enjoying these family-friendly activities!
