Take a Self-Guided Auto Tour Through Cades Cove
Cades Cove Loop Road, an exquisitely paved, one-way route, reveals a captivating plethora of historic landmarks while tracing the path of an erstwhile logging railroad track. In the subsequent paragraphs, we’ll delve into how you can navigate through the Cove’s iconic 11-mile loop with the assistance of your very own self-guided auto tour!
Book a Gatlinburg cabin with Heartland Cabin Rentals and immerse yourself in the deep-rooted history of the Smokies. Our cabins in Gatlinburg get you closer to the historical flavors of the Smokies. What are you waiting for? Call or click today!
JOHN OLIVER CABIN
Your first stop is the John Oliver Cabin, named after one of the Cove’s very first pioneers. This beautifully preserved log cabin, built without the use of nails, paints a sturdy testament to the hardiness and resourcefulness of its original inhabitants. It bears the palpable echoes of a bygone era, a narrative enriching your journey through this historical trail.
PRIMITIVE BAPTIST CHURCH
The trail then leads you to the Primitive Baptist Church, the second house of worship to be built in the Cove. Its quaint, modest structure is recorded in the National Register of Historic Places, adding another layer of historical richness to the Cades Cove landscape.
METHODIST CHURCH
Next, the early 1820s Methodist Church constructed by J.D. McCampbell, lends its sacred and serene atmosphere to your journey. This beautiful, classic church, crafted from American chestnut trees, is a cornerstone of early Smoky Mountain heritage.
MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
Proceed then to the Missionary Baptist Church, originating from a schism within the Primitive Baptist Church congregation in 1839. Vibrant daffodils bloom in the springtime, enhancing the church’s tranquil charm.
COOPER ROAD TRAIL
On your journey through time, you’ll come across the Cooper Road Trail, once a crucial route to Maryville, Tennessee. The former packhorse trail is now a stunning hiking trail, offering vistas of unspoiled old-growth forest.
ELIJAH OLIVER PLACE
Further along, you will find the Elijah Oliver Place, home to Elijah Oliver, the son of one of the Cove’s first pioneers, John Oliver. This homestead offers a fascinating glance into the life of an early Smoky Mountains settler.
ABRAMS FALLS
The tour then takes a surprising detour into nature at the trailhead leading to Abrams Falls. This small yet picturesque 20-foot waterfall is a haven of natural beauty, complementing the historical narrative of the journey.
CADES COVE VISITOR CENTER
Rest and refresh at the Cades Cove Visitor Center, a place to indulge in local storytelling, purchase souvenirs, or fetch a fresh bag of flour ground in an old-fashioned grist mill.
CABLE MILL
At the Cable Mill, the only working grist mill in the Smoky Mountains, you can learn about ancient grain grinding processes and explore nearby preserved historic buildings.
HENRY WHITEHEAD PLACE
Further on this historical expedition stands the unique Henry Whitehead Place, celebrated for being one of three distinctively built houses in the Smokies, and the only one still standing.
CADES COVE NATURE TRAIL
Experience the refreshing tranquillity of the Cades Cove Nature Trail. In spring, the path is ladened with blooming dogwoods that are sure to make your walk memorable.
DAN LAWSON PLACE
At the Dan Lawson Place, you’ll be fascinated to find a rare brick chimney, crafted from Cove-made bricks- an unusual feature for settlements of this era.
TIPTON PLACE
The Tipton Place offers the best porch view in the Cove. Though originally owned by Colonel Hamp Tipton, it was his daughters, Lucy and Lizzie, both teachers, who resided here.
CARTER SHIELDS CABIN
And finally, as your historical journey concludes, you’ll encounter the Carter Shields Cabin. Perfectly aged by time and weathered hands, this quintessential American log cabin is a history photographer’s dream.
Don’t forget to explore the additional byways of Hyatt and Sparks Lane, both open for motorists and offering a cross-cut view of the verdant Cades Cove fields, rounding up your historic and scenic expedition through this beautiful part of the Smoky Mountains.
CURRENT CABIN SPECIALS:
Hey, wait a second before you go! Be sure to check our Current Cabin Specials, Deals, and Discounts to see if your stay qualifies for a special discount! Book your cabin in Gatlinburg with Heartland Rentals for a memorable moment in the mountains.