If you’re planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove is one spot you won’t want to miss. This wide valley has rolling fields, historic cabins, streams, and amazing wildlife. The main way most visitors experience it is by driving the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road, but if you love a little adventure on foot, there are plenty of hiking trails and nature walks too!

If you’re new to Cades Cove, check out my First-Timer’s Guide to Cades Cove for everything you need to know before you go, including hours, must-see stops, and where to stay.

Popular Hikes & Walks in Cades Cove

Here are three of the most popular trails in the area, ranging from short, easy walks to longer hikes:

1. Abrams Falls Trail

• Distance: 5 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• The trail winds through the forest along Abrams Creek, ending at Abrams Falls, a 20-foot waterfall. Wildlife sightings are common along the way!

2. Cades Cove Nature Trail (Scenic Loop Walk)

• Distance: 0.5–1 mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• This easy nature walk starts near the Visitor Center and offers great views of meadows, streams, and wildlife.

3. Rich Mountain Loop Trail

• Distance: 8.5 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• This trail gives you a quieter experience away from the main loop. Hike through forests and enjoy views of the cove and surrounding mountains. This is a great option if you want a longer, more immersive hike.

Other Notable Trails:

• Little Bottoms Trail (1 mile, easy)
• John Oliver Cabin Loop (short historic walk)
• Porters Creek Trail (longer backcountry hike, outside the main loop)

Packing List & Hiking Tips

Even short hikes in Cades Cove require a little preparation:

Water & Snacks: Always carry enough water and a few snacks, especially if you plan  to do a longer hike.

Maps & Navigation: Phone service is limited in the park (aka we had no signal the entire time we were there). Download maps to your phone ahead of time using Apple Maps:

• • Open Apple Maps and search for your destination/trail.
  • Swipe up on the location card and tap “Add to Favorites” or “Download Offline” if your version allows.
  • You’ll be able to navigate even without a signal.

Wildlife Safety: On my most recent visit I saw turkeys, horses, deer, and a black bear. Most animals will keep their distance if you respect theirs.

• • • Bear Safety Tip: Stay calm, back away slowly, and never run. Make noise so the bear knows you’re there, and keep your distance. Do not feed any of the wildlife.
• Other Essentials: Sunscreen, bug spray, good shoes, a hat, and a camera/binoculars.