Becky Cable

The culture and times of the Cades Cove settlement dictated that all members of the family produce both for themselves and the family. Children were trained as soon as they were old enough to perform chores and worked in the family business when they were not in school. A family business, such as Becky Cable’s was usually a farm or store but could be some other enterprise. In Cades Cove, even the girls worked in the fields of...

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Essential Tips for Visiting Cades Cove

Here are some trip saving tips for visiting Cades Cove! OK, maybe not trip saving, but knowing them will certainly make your trip a little easier – maybe even better. Don’t Feed the Animals One of the first tips for visiting Cades Cove, is: please do not feed the animals. There are numerous reasons for this, and hopefully by now this is commonly understood theme. But, in a nutshell, it’s for everyone’s safety as well as the...

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Seasons in Cades Cove

Winter All the seasons in Cades Cove are gorgeous if you ask us. But depending on your preference of season, your favorite season to visit Cades Cove will vary. Although, some will argue strongly that winter is when the Cove is the most beautiful. Activities will be more limited, but like everything in winter they have their own unique charm. Horseback riding isn’t available in the winter, but an intimate winter drive might be on the...

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Tips for the Ultimate Destination Wedding in the Smoky Mountains

Did you know that the Smoky Mountain area is known as the wedding capital of the South? It’s true. More couples decide to hold their wedding in the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville area than anywhere else in the United States, second only to Las Vegas, Nevada.  These couples have a reason for getting married here too! It’s just simply beautiful with tons of available lodging for families and friends to spend the night. Make...

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Fishing

To fish in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you need a valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license. Licenses can be obtained from the Tennessee Government Website or the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Know your fish before you go–the possession of brook trout (brookie) is prohibited. A combination of five rainbow and brown trout per day (minimum 7 inches) is the limit. Only artificial lures and flies may...

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Camping

All backcountry campers need a free backcountry permit. They are available at most ranger stations and visitor centers. Anyone staying overnight in the backcountry must camp in a designated site or shelter. Campers need reservations to stay in a shelter. Fourteen tent areas also require reservations. Campers can make reservations by calling (865)436-1231 daily during regular business hours. For questions about the backcountry (but not...

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