Cades Cove Hours of Operation

Plan your visit with our comprehensive guide to opening hours for all major attractions in the valley.

If you are planning on visiting Cades Cove during your next vacation to the Smoky Mountains, you may want to know exactly when the area is open. We have created a complete list of the hours of operation for each of the fun and exciting attractions found here.

Cades Cove Loop Road

The Cades Cove Loop Road is a scenic roadway that stretches 11 miles in total around the secluded area. Along this drive, you will find historic home sites, rolling mountain views, and acres upon acres of open fields.

Open Daily: Sunrise to Sunset

Vehicle-Free Hours: The road is closed to vehicle traffic every Wednesday and Saturday until 10:00 a.m. from early May to late September. During this time, you are invited to walk or bike the roadway safely without worrying about cars slowing you down!

Visitor Center

Located at the halfway point of the loop road. Stop by to pick up a souvenir, books about the national park, t-shirts, and homemade jellies and jams.

January 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
February 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
March 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
April 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
May – July 9:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
August 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
September – October 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
November 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
December 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Picnic Area

All this driving around or biking can really build up an appetite. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

May 1 – August 31 Sunrise to 8:00 p.m.
Sept 1 – April 30 Sunrise to Sunset

Campground

For an intimate nature experience, reserve one of the many campsites found within the cove’s boundaries and sleep under the stars.

Season Open Year-Round
Check-in 1:00 p.m.
Check-out 12:00 p.m.

Riding Stables

Experience the area from horseback with a relaxed, 1-hour guided tour exploring mountain streams and shady forests. Guided hayrides and carriage rides are also available!

General Season: Open 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (March 4 through November 30)

Hayride & Carriage Ride Departure Times

March 4 – May 31 10:00 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. | 3:00 p.m.
June 1 – August 15 10:00 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. | 3:00 p.m. | 6:00 p.m.
August 16 – Season Close 10:00 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. | 3:00 p.m.