The land now known as Cades Cove was first used as Cherokee hunting grounds, and in the early 19th century, it was acquired by the state of Tennessee and parceled out to white settlers. From the mid 1800s until the establishment of the national park in the late 1920s, the area was a thriving frontier community, at one point reaching a peak population of 685. The cove was originally called "Kate's Cove," named after the wife of Cherokee Chief Abrams.

Today, Cades Cove is virtually a living museum, serving as home to many of the dwellings and other structures that stood during the community's heyday. As you travel the loop, you'll see the homesteads of early settlers, such as Elijah Oliver and John Cable, as well as some of the churches that were so important in the lives of the cove's residents. Of particular interest is the Cable Mill area; there, you'll find the Cades Cove visitor center and several remaining vestiges of pioneer life, such as a corn mill, a sorghum mill and blacksmith shop.

Even if it weren't an historical treasure, Cades Cove would be worth visiting for its scenic beauty alone. Rolling green pastures are framed on all sides by foothills or towering peaks. Grazing cattle, frolicking deer and blooming flowers paint a picture of pastoral Smoky Mountains beauty.

When touring the cove, be sure to make time for exploring nature. At the loop's midpoint you'll find the trail head to Abrams Falls. The 2.5-mile, one-way hike takes you along the banks of Abrams Creek to a beautiful waterfall. Just past the Cable Mill area, look for the Cades Cove Nature Trail, a half-mile route that provides insight into the ways that the cove's residents used their abundant natural resources.

While automobile is usually the quickest means of touring Cades Cove, it's not your only option. Many people take on the loop as a hike, while others prefer experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of the cove on bicycle. The best times to try these alternative modes of travel are on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, because the one-way road is closed to auto travel before 10 a.m.