Cades Cove Named One of USA TODAY’s Best Scenic Views for 2025
There’s something magical about driving through Cades Cove at sunrise, when the mist hangs low over the valley and deer graze peacefully in the golden light. I’ve been visiting this Smoky Mountain treasure for years, and it still takes my breath away every single time. So I wasn’t surprised at all when USA TODAY recently named Cades Cove one of America’s Most Treasured Views for 2025.
This recognition is well-deserved for one of the most visited spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And the best part? It won’t cost you a dime to experience this natural wonder.
Why Cades Cove Earned Its Place Among America’s Most Treasured Views
Having explored nearly every trail and scenic drive in the Smokies, I can confidently say that Cades Cove offers something truly special. The 11-mile one-way loop road winds through a wide, verdant valley surrounded by mountains, creating a landscape that feels both intimate and expansive.
What makes Cades Cove stand out is the perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The preserved 19th-century homesteads, churches, and mills tell the story of the people who lived here before the national park was established. Wildlife sightings are practically guaranteed – I’ve spotted black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and even elusive foxes during my visits.
Visiting Cades Cove Without Breaking the Bank
In East Tennessee, summer fun doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. Cades Cove is completely free to visit, making it a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and photographers on a budget.
Here are some free activities you can enjoy at Cades Cove:
- Drive the scenic 11-mile loop at your own pace
- Hike one of the many trails that start from the loop road
- Visit historic buildings like the John Oliver Cabin and Primitive Baptist Church
- Photograph wildlife in their natural habitat
- Have a picnic with mountain views (just bring your own food!)
- Bike the loop road on Wednesday and Saturday mornings when it’s closed to vehicle traffic
Best Times to Visit Cades Cove
After countless visits throughout the seasons, I’ve found that timing is everything when visiting Cades Cove. The loop can get congested during peak tourist season, so planning accordingly can make your experience much more enjoyable.
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April-May) | Wildflowers blooming, fewer crowds, mild weather | Occasional rain showers |
| Summer (June-August) | Lush green landscapes, extended daylight hours | Heaviest crowds, afternoon thunderstorms |
| Fall (September-November) | Spectacular foliage, increased wildlife activity | Very busy during peak color weekends |
| Winter (December-March) | Fewest visitors, potential for snow views | Road closures during inclement weather |
For the best experience, I recommend arriving early in the morning (before 9 AM) or later in the afternoon (after 3 PM), particularly if you’re visiting during summer or fall weekends. Early mornings offer the bonus of spectacular misty mountain views and increased wildlife activity.
Beyond the Loop: Other Free Activities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
While Cades Cove is a must-see, there are plenty of other free attractions throughout the Smokies that are worth your time. I’ve hiked nearly every trail in the park, and these are some of my favorite free experiences:
- Hike to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies
- Visit Mingus Mill and the Mountain Farm Museum near Oconaluftee
- Explore the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
- Take in the view from Newfound Gap, which straddles Tennessee and North Carolina
- Stroll along the Little River Trail for peaceful water views
- Photograph the historic cabins at the Noah “Bud” Ogle place
Planning Your Visit to America’s Most Treasured View
If you’re inspired to see what USA TODAY considers one of America’s Most Treasured Views, here are a few insider tips I’ve gathered over years of exploring Cades Cove:
Pack your patience during busy times – wildlife sightings often cause “bear jams” as visitors stop to observe and photograph. This is part of the experience, so bring snacks, water, and a good attitude!
The complete loop takes about 2-3 hours without stops, but I recommend allowing at least half a day to fully appreciate the views, historic structures, and wildlife.
Cell service is virtually non-existent in Cades Cove, so download maps or guides before you arrive. I consider this a blessing – it’s one of the few places left where you can truly disconnect.
Photography Tips for Capturing Cades Cove’s Beauty
As someone who’s spent countless mornings and evenings trying to capture the perfect Cades Cove shot, I can tell you that this place is a photographer’s paradise. The early morning mist, the golden evening light on the mountains, and the abundant wildlife create endless photo opportunities.
For the best shots:
- Arrive at sunrise for that magical morning light and misty valleys
- Bring a zoom lens for wildlife photography
- Use a polarizing filter to enhance the blue skies and reduce glare on sunny days
- Include historic structures in your landscape compositions for added interest
- Be patient when photographing wildlife – respect their space and never approach them
Why Cades Cove Keeps Drawing Me Back
After dozens of visits to Cades Cove over the years, I still discover something new each time. It might be a bear cub playing in a distant field, the way the light filters through the trees at a certain spot, or a wildflower I’ve never noticed before.
There’s something profoundly peaceful about this valley. Perhaps it’s the way the mountains embrace the open fields, creating a natural sanctuary. Or maybe it’s the sense of history that lingers around the old homesteads, reminding us of the generations who found solace in these same views.
USA TODAY got it right – Cades Cove truly is one of America’s Most Treasured Views. But don’t take their word for it, or even mine. Experience it for yourself. The best things in life are free, and Cades Cove proves that old saying true.
Have you visited Cades Cove? What was your favorite spot or memory from this spectacular valley? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!