Seven miles into the National Park via the Townsend entrance, an 11-mile driving loop takes visitors back in time. Families began settling in Cades Cove in 1821 and the population peaked around 1900 with 708 individuals in 125 family units. Today, cabins and churches built during the 1800’s are open for exploration, fields are wide and surrounded on all sides by magnificent mountains, a working grist mill and historical re-enactments are complemented by a visitor’s center and gift shop.


This driving tour mobile app will take you through the history of Cades Cove. With GPS mapping, voice narration and historical photos this app will guide you through this beautiful area, full of wildlife and history.