4 Unique Things to Do Along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop
Cades Cove is a magical place visited by millions of people every year. There are so many wonderful things to do and experience in Cades Cove! If you are wanting to try out some unique things to do in the historic valley, then you’ve come to the right place! Here are 4 unique things to do along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop:
1. Bike Ride During Vehicle Free Wednesdays
Did you know vehicles are not allowed on the Cades Cove Scenic Loop on Wednesdays? Between the months of May and September, Cades Cove restricts access to motor vehicles every Wednesday. This unique event makes it so pedestrians and cyclists get to explore the area without dealing with crowded traffic on the roads. If you do not bring a bike with you, there are rentals available at the Cades Cove Campground Store. Bike rentals are first come first serve so plan accordingly. We recommend getting there early to avoid missing out on a bike rental. Biking during vehicle free Wednesdays means less traffic and more opportunities to experience nature and historic sites up close.
2. Take a Carriage Ride
Another unique thing to do along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop is to stop by the Cades Cove Riding Stables. This establishment offers plenty of adventures! One of the most unique things they offer is a guided carriage ride. During the carriage ride, a private guide will take you on forest trails and share the history of the area with you. Each ride lasts around 30 to 45 minutes. Cades Cove Riding Stables also has opportunities for horseback riding, guided hayrides, and more!
3. Wildflower Viewing
Are you planning to visit Cades Cove during spring or summer? If so, be prepared to see the most beautiful wildflowers around! As you explore the Cades Cove Scenic Loop be on the lookout for gorgeous Smoky Mountain wildflowers! Some of the top wildflowers to see are Black Eyed Susans, Flame Azalea, Rhododendron, Mountain Laurel, Lady Slipper, and Butterfly Weed. There are many places in Cades Cove to see them. You’ll be able to see some wildflowers from your car. After you park, explore the open fields and hiking trails for more wildflower viewing opportunities. You’ll love seeing all the different kinds of flora in Cades Cove!
4. Have A Picnic
A great family activity to do along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop is to have a picnic! Exploring the Cades Cove Scenic Loop is bound to make you hungry. Just before you enter the historic valley, there is a Cades Cove picnic area offering 81 sites. Stop there to have a picnic with your family and friends before or after adventuring along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop. Not a fan of picnics? There are plenty of delicious restaurants in the Smoky Mountains to try out!
Now that you know about some unique things to do along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop, take a look at our step-by-step guide to the Cades Cove Loop Road. We hope you have a great time exploring Cades Cove and the rest of the Smoky Mountains!
