Cades Cove
The Preserved Valley
State: Tennessee
County: Blount County
Founded: 1818
Abandoned: 1930s (National Park)
Peak Population: 685
Cades Cove was a farming community isolated by mountains. The NPS acquired the land in the 1920s and 30s, allowing some residents to stay for life. Today it is an open-air museum of log cabins, churches, and mills, famous for traffic jams and bear sightings.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Early morning (wildlife)
Difficulty: Easy (drive loop)
Time Needed: 2-4 hours
Quick Facts
- Most visited area of Smokies
- Working grist mill
- Primitive Baptist Church preserved
Location
Address: Cades Cove Loop Rd, TN
Coordinates: 35.59, -83.82