Cades Cove

Cades Cove in easternTennessee has become one of the most popular spots in the Great Smoky Mountains. Not only does it have great scenic views, but there's a good chance of seeing wildlife. White-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and coyotes are commonly seen. You can drive an eleven-mile loop and stay in your vehicle, or get out at stops along the way. If you like to hike or bicycle, the area offers plenty of trails. In fact, only walkers and bicyclists are allowed on the trail until 10:00 a.m. Camping is also available.

Surrounded by mountains, the valley has a rich history. The Cherokee hunted the area, but no villages have been found. The first settlers arrived between 1818 and 1821.  The 1830 census shows 271 people lived in the cove. Visitors can also tour some of the historic, mountain buildings and get a sense of what the isolated place may have been like years ago.

I've read the Smokey Mountain Dreams series by Sandra Robbins. They're set in Cades Cove, and I would highly recommend them for good, Christian fiction. They will give you an idea of what the area was like before all the tourist found it. However, today Cades Cove is managed by the National Park Service, and they try to maintain its pristine qualities.


The Smokey Mountain Dreams series somewhat reminds me of my Appalachian Roots series. Both are set in the Appalachians, yet they're each special in its own way. Whether or not you read the books, however, Cades Cove is definitely worth seeing.

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