Cades Cove

Eleven miles of beautiful scenic views that you can drive, hike, or bike. Cades Cove offers this, and plenty more- so stick with me for my guide on all you need to know!

History

Located in eastern Tennessee within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this beautiful area provides scenic views and has lots of wildlife to enjoy. The first settlers came to the valley in the early 1820s and the last official resident passed in 1999. There are still several structures that are preserved and accessible to the public today.

• John Oliver Cabin: one of the most notable people to resist efforts from government to sell land and move in order for the National Park to be created, his house still stands today
• Cantilever Barn: uniquely designed barn that is wider on top to provide storage for hay, while also allowing for shelter for outdoor animals and livestock underneath
• Methodist Church: built in 1902 by John D. McCampbell, who was also the pastor; it’s unique design included two front doors so that men could enter and sit on one side and women and children could enter and sit on the opposite side
• Primitive Baptist Church: one branch from the original Cades Cove Baptist Church of 1827; this branch split in 1841 because they did not agree with others about the biblical interpretation of whether scripture allowed for missionary work (existing church frame standing today was built in 1887)
• Missionary Baptist Church: second branch from original baptist church that built their own structure in 1894, and as they grew built the structure that can be seen today in 1915
• Henry Whitehead Place: completed in 1898, this home was built by Henry Whitehead for his new wife Matilda after she and her child were left by her previous husband; Henry promised her the finest home in Cades Cove- he even built a covered walkway to connect the new cabin to the old makeshift cabin previously built by Matilda’s brothers shortly after her first husband left
• John P. Cable Grist Mill: built in the 1870s and allowed residents to grind corn and wheat into flour to make bread; there were about 6 or 7 mills throughout Cades Cove, but this is the only one still standing

Wildlife

Cades Cove is arguably most notable for its abundance of wildlife. You’ll have the opportunity to see over 200 species of birds, including red-tailed hawks, and wild turkeys. There is also an abundance of whitetail deer, and of course, plenty of black bear. Your chances of seeing these animals will depend on the time of year you visit, as well as the time of day. As always, make sure you keep a safe distance from all wildlife and respect these beautiful animals- after all, we are visiting their home.

Bonus: Cades Cove Jeep Outpost

Another great stop just a short drive away, in Townsend, TN, is the Cades Cove Jeep Outpost. They have apparel, accessories, parts, and almost anything you can think of for your Jeep. They also host lots of events in the community throughout the year. Check out all their info here! And for a nice Jeeping adventure, don’t forget to check out Parsons Branch Road in Cades Cove for a fun off-road time.