Cades Cove Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Purchase only one tour per vehicle, not per person. Everyone listens together! Discover gorgeous natural scenery and rich history at Cades Cove, one of the most popular destinations in the Smoky Mountains. This scenic loop packs a ton of sights into a small space. Check out sparkling waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and historic churches all in one place! Plus, learn the fascinating history behind this cove, including how the Civil War once threatened to tear it apart. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10 min

   The first landmark you'll encounter is the John Oliver Place, a historic homestead dating back to the early 1800s. Note: The tour is over 35+ miles long, with more than 40+ audio stories, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.

2. 2

   Cades Cove Visitor Center

   Pass by

   Your tour of Cades Cove begins near the Sugarlands Visitor Center. From here, you'll drive down a scenic route to reach the main attraction: Cades Cove Loop.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10 min

   Next up is the Primitive Baptist Church, one of three historic churches in Cades Cove which offers a window into the area's past.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   10 min

   Past that is the Methodist Church, which cost only $115 to build when it was constructed in 1902!

5. 5

   Stop 5

   5 min

   Then there's the Missionary Baptist Church, which split off from the Primitive Baptist Church during the early days of Cades Cove due to ideological divides.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   5 min

   Continuing on, you'll come to the Elijah Oliver Place, accessible via a half-mile trail. This secluded homestead once belonged to an abolitionist who found himself in grave danger when the Civil War broke out.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   10 min

   Up next is the Abrams Falls Trail, which takes hikers to a powerful waterfall hidden deep in the wilderness.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   10 min

   After that, you'll see the John Cable Grist Mill. This mill dates back to 1870 and you can still see it in operation today!

9. 9

   Stop 9

   10 min

   From the John Cable Grist Mill, you'll have the option to make a detour to the Henry Whitehead House. This pleasant cabin was actually built as a wedding gift!

10. 10

    Stop 10

    Pass by

    Next on your route is Tipton Place, which was once home to a war hero of the American Revolution..

11. 11

    Stop 11

    10 min

    Finally, you'll come next to the Carter Shields Cabin, a staunchly abolitionist home that lost much during the Civil War. There are many stories that you'll hear along the way, including • A Cherokee Homeland • White Settlers Arrive in Cades Cove • Smokies Wildlife • The Cussing Cover • Last Family who lived in Cades Cove and more. Explore the captivating Great Smoky Mountains and the stunning Cades Cove by purchasing our special bundle that includes both destinations.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Check current road, trail, and weather conditions before your visit, as temporary closures may affect the tour route.
• A valid parking tag is required for vehicles parked for longer than 15 minutes anywhere within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• There are no gas stations inside the park, so fill your tank before entering.
• Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to motor vehicles every Wednesday from May 6 through September 30, 2026, giving cyclists and pedestrians exclusive access.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.