Cades Cove Named One of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views in America for 2025
As someone who’s spent years exploring every nook and cranny of the Great Smoky Mountains, I nearly jumped out of my hiking boots when I heard the news – Cades Cove has been officially recognized as one of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views in America for 2025! This recognition confirms what locals and regular visitors have always known: this peaceful valley, encircled by majestic mountains, offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the entire country.
Why Cades Cove Deserves This Prestigious Recognition
Cades Cove isn’t just another pretty place in the Smokies. This 11-mile loop road takes you through a wide, verdant valley where time seems to stand still. Historic cabins, churches, and gristmills dot the landscape, telling the story of early Appalachian settlers against a backdrop of mountain vistas that change dramatically with the seasons.
I remember my first drive through the Cove at dawn, when mist hung low in the fields and a family of deer grazed peacefully just yards from my car. That moment encapsulated why this place is special – it’s where wildlife, history, and natural beauty converge in perfect harmony.
Planning Your Visit to This National Treasure
If you’re planning to experience this USA TODAY-recognized view for yourself, here are some insider tips:
- Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon offer the best lighting for photos and increased chances of wildlife sightings.
- Vehicle-Free Days: On Wednesdays and Saturdays from May through September, the loop is closed to motor vehicles until 10 AM, making it perfect for cyclists and walkers.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for black bears, white-tailed deer, turkey, and coyotes. Remember to maintain a safe distance!
- Historic Buildings: Take time to stop and explore the preserved homesteads that tell the story of the community that once thrived here.
Important Closure Notice for Abrams Falls Trail
Heads up to all hikers planning a visit soon! The popular Abrams Falls Trail and its trailhead parking lot will be closed from June 16 through June 18 for essential maintenance work. During this period, visitors will not have access to the falls. This 5-mile roundtrip trail is normally one of the most popular hikes in Cades Cove, leading to a picturesque 20-foot waterfall, so plan your visit accordingly.
Best Spots for Photography in Cades Cove
As someone who’s filled countless memory cards with Cades Cove shots over the years, I can tell you that certain spots along the loop are particularly photogenic:
| Location | Best For | Best Time of Day |
|---|---|---|
| John Oliver Cabin | Historic architecture with mountain backdrop | Morning |
| Sparks Lane | Misty morning landscapes, framed views | Dawn |
| Primitive Baptist Church | Cultural heritage, atmospheric shots | Late afternoon |
| Hyatt Lane | Panoramic valley views | Golden hour |
What Makes Cades Cove a “Most Treasured View”
USA TODAY’s recognition didn’t happen by chance. Cades Cove offers a rare combination of accessibility and preservation. Unlike many natural wonders that require strenuous hikes to reach, this spectacular valley can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and abilities.
The valley’s unique microclimate and geography create magical conditions – whether it’s the famous “smoke” (actually water vapor) that gives the mountains their name, the kaleidoscope of fall colors, or the carpet of wildflowers in spring. Every visit offers something new to discover.
Beyond the Loop Road: Hidden Gems of Cades Cove
While the main loop gets most of the attention, I’ve always encouraged visitors to explore beyond the pavement. If you have time after your drive (and when it reopens after maintenance), Abrams Falls is absolutely worth the hike. The five-mile round trip rewards you with views of one of the most voluminous waterfalls in the park.
For those looking to escape the crowds, the Rich Mountain Road (open seasonally) offers an alternative exit from the Cove with spectacular overlooks and a fraction of the traffic. Just be prepared for a narrow, winding gravel road!
Tips for Avoiding the Crowds
Let’s be honest – Cades Cove’s popularity can sometimes lead to traffic jams, especially during peak season. Here’s how I’ve learned to enjoy this treasure without the crowds:
- Visit during weekdays if possible
- Arrive very early (before 8 AM) or later in the afternoon
- Consider visiting during the winter months when the scenery is still stunning but visitor numbers drop dramatically
- Take advantage of the vehicle-free mornings to cycle the loop
Experience America’s Most Treasured View for Yourself
This USA TODAY recognition reinforces what makes the Great Smoky Mountains National Park America’s most visited national park. Cades Cove exemplifies the perfect blend of natural wonder and cultural heritage that makes the Smokies so special.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Smokies explorer like me, seeing Cades Cove through the lens of this prestigious recognition offers a fresh perspective on its timeless beauty. Just remember to check the park’s official website for the latest updates on trail closures and conditions before your visit.
Have you experienced the magic of Cades Cove? What’s your favorite spot along the loop? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!
Source: National Park Service – Great Smoky Mountains National Park