One of the most picturesque places in North America is Cades Cove in Tennessee. Cades Cove is home to 6,800 acres of beautiful scenic land found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Cades Cove attracts approximately two million visitors every year and is one of the highest visited National Park areas in the United States.
Prior to the year 1818, Cades Cove was a part of the Cherokee Nation. During the Civil War, Cades Cove fell on tough times because most of the population was supportive of the Union, and they were harassed continually by the Confederates in North Carolina.
After the Civil War, Cades Cove went back to its rural lifestyle, and the industry around it began to spring up. This caused a slow migration from the Cove that continued until 1926 when the Great Smokey Mountain National Park became established.
The last true resident of the Cove was Kermit Caughron who passed in 1999. Even though his home was a historical location, the National Park Service tore it down in 2001 because it did not seem to fit well with the current historical setting in Cades Cove.
Even though the settlers lived a harsh life in Cades Cove, Tennessee, they would have had to have an amazing appreciation for the breathtaking land they called their home for so many years. Even though the outcome of Cades Cove was unfortunate many years ago, the land has now been preserved for everyone to enjoy.
When you visit Cades Cove, there are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy. By far, the most popular thing to do is drive around the 11 mile loop or ride by bike around the loop to enjoy the beautiful scenery. People spend anywhere from a few hours to an entire day relaxing in the Cades Cove loop. If you enjoy seeing wildlife, arrive in the early morning hours or stay until dusk.
Other than the loop road, you can also go camping, hiking, biking, shopping, fishing, picnicking, go on hay rides or enjoy a guided program around Cades Cove. The shopping in Cades Cove is different from what you will find in Gatlinburg. Here you will find more historical items, photography and books related to Cades Cove or the surrounding area.
The beauty and rich history of Cades Cove is a must see on your next visit to Tennessee.
