Okay, so this is not technically a hiking trail, but I had to include it as one of the must-see places to visit while in Tennessee.

Cades Cove is a scenic valley located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, in the southeastern United States. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for visitors from around the world.

The valley was originally settled by European immigrants in the early 19th century, who cleared the land for farming and established homesteads throughout the area. Today, many of these historic structures can still be seen in Cades Cove, including cabins, churches, and grist mills.

One of the most popular activities in Cades Cove is the scenic drive that loops through the valley. The 11-mile (17.7 km) loop road offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Along the way, visitors can stop at several historic sites, including the John Oliver Cabin, the Cable Mill Historic Area, and the Primitive Baptist Church.

For those looking to explore the area on foot, there are also several hiking trails that start in Cades Cove. The Abrams Falls Trail is a popular option, offering a 5-mile (8 km) round-trip hike that leads to a picturesque waterfall. The Rich Mountain Loop Trail is another favorite, offering stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains along a 8.5-mile (13.7 km) loop.

Please note, that Cades Cove is only open to bikes and foot traffic on Wednesdays from May until August. Even though the driving tour through this section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is only 11 miles long, expect it to take between 2-4 hours to complete, due to the slower speeds of everyone taking in its beauty.

For visitors looking to learn more about the area’s natural and cultural history, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several educational programs and ranger-led tours. These programs cover a wide range of topics, from the park’s geology and ecology to its cultural heritage and traditions.

Overall, Cades Cove is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the natural beauty and rich history of the area. Whether you’re looking to take a scenic drive, hike through the wilderness, or learn more about the area’s fascinating past, Cades Cove has something for everyone. With its stunning views, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder that Cades Cove is one of the most popular destinations in the park.