An 11-mile, one-way loop road circles Cades Cove, a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains south of Townsend, Tennessee. This landscape steeped in history reflects a defining feature of Great Smoky Mountains National Park: it spans the border between Tennessee and North Carolina and is known for its diverse plant and animal life. Historic churches, grist mills, barns and homes in the park illustrate mountain life before the park was established. If you’re planning to drive the loop, check current road conditions.
Rivers, gorges and waterfalls
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries. Free programs and events led by park rangers complement the landscape; their dates vary by season. The Haunting in the Hills storytelling festival features stories, live music and hands-on craft activities. This program is also subject to change.
At Obed Wild & Scenic River, gorges reach depths of up to 500 feet, and the area encompasses rugged, untouched terrain and exceptional waterways. Kayaking is one of the water sports available there. Obed is also designated an International Dark Sky Park—an official distinction that, alongside its river landscape, is part of its identity.
Tennessee’s outdoor experiences include numerous waterfalls, rivers, caves and hiking trails. At Burgess Falls, the Falling Water River drops a total of nearly 250 feet over three waterfalls; Fall Creek Falls plunges 256 feet in the state park of the same name. Twin Falls in Rock Island State Park is a 30-foot-high, horseshoe-shaped cascade with an 80-foot drop. Water levels and access conditions vary seasonally there.
Cummins Falls is a 75-foot-high waterfall with a swimming area in Cummins Falls State Park. Swimming and access to the gorge depend on conditions and permits. Foster Falls plunges 60 feet into a pool in South Cumberland State Park; swimming access and trail conditions vary with the weather. For an underground view, a guided cave tour at Ruby Falls leads to an underground waterfall reached after a 260-foot ride in a glass elevator. Check ticket time slots and access conditions in advance.
History, music and unique experiences
Stones River National Battlefield commemorates one of the largest and most significant battles of the American Civil War. The Murfreesboro Greenway System connects parts of the battlefield for visitors on foot or by bike. Living history demonstrations are also held regularly; dates may vary. Another way to combine a route with activity is the Natchez Trace Parkway: it ends just south of Nashville, Tennessee, and is a designated 444-mile bicycle route through three states.
In Nashville, the Grand Ole Opry features country musicians every week; schedules and performers change. The Ryman Auditorium offers a look back at an earlier chapter in this musical history: it was the Grand Ole Opry’s venue from 1943 to 1974. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum focuses on the 1927 Bristol Sessions. The museum tells their story and explores their continuing influence on music; permanent interactive exhibits also focus on the sessions.
Other places also combine culture with different ways to visit. Oak Ridge is one of three sites of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage offers more than 1,120 hectares of dog-friendly walking trails, as well as a staff-led tour of Andrew Jackson’s historic home. Check access conditions and schedules before your visit. The Graceland Mansion Tour is audio-guided. Dollywood covers 160 hectares in the Great Smoky Mountains and offers more than 50 rides; the number and selection may change.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Shelby, Hamilton, Sevier, Rutherford, Williamson, Dekalb, Knox, Humphreys, Anderson, Davidson, Sullivan, Cocke, Hamblen, Wilson, Coffee, Loudon, Dyer, Greene, Montgomery, Roane County, Dickson County, Blount County, Jefferson County, Putnam County, Sumner County, Bedford County, Washington County, Gibson, Campbell County, Obion County, Mcminn County, Cumberland County, Hardin County, Lawrence County, Madison County, Maury County, Unicoi County, Weakley County, Marion County, Henderson County, Lauderdale County, Johnson County, Scott County, Warren County, Monroe County, Morgan County, Hickman County, Decatur County, Haywood County, Henry County, Carroll County, Hawkins County, Tipton, Franklin County, Giles County, Marshall County, Carter, Stewart County, Mcnairy County, Jackson County, Hardeman County, Polk County, Crockett County, Lewis County, Grainger County, Cheatham County, Claiborne County, Sequatchie County, Fayette County, Union County.
For the broader travel overview: Usa.
