With the temperatures cooling down, it’s the perfect time to get outside and go for a hike.  Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is home to some beautiful countryside with one of the best places to go for hike being Cades Cove.  The 6,800-acre valley is the parks most visited area due to its numerous trails, abundant wildlife and tranquil waterfalls.

Cades Cove

At Cades Cove, one of the most popular hikes ends at Abrams Falls.  The 5-mile roundtrip hike follows Abrams Creek and travels across ridges, with several wooden bridges creating picturesque stops.    The hike is considered moderate but the terrain is rugged in certain areas.  The reward is well worth the hike, though.  Abrams Falls rises only 20-feet but the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height.  A large pool is found at the base, surrounded by a large rock cropping.  Pack a light lunch and snack while you enjoy the splendor of the fall. The trailhead for Abrams Falls is located past stop #10 on the Cades Cove Loop Road.

 

Wildlife viewing is another popular thing to do at Cades Cove.  A 4,000-acre open area provides the perfect place to observe the various wildlife.  White-tailed deer, black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, and other animals are frequently sighted.

Historic 19^th century buildings still stand inside the acreage of Cades Cove.  Churches and pioneer cabins quaintly remind visitors of the heritage found in these hills. 

An 11-mile loop road inside Cades Cove is an excellent way to experience all the area has to offer.