If Cades Cove is too crowded, what is a good alternative place to visit?
Good question! Yes, Cades Cove can get extremely crowded at certain times of the year, so if it’s quiet and solitude you’re seeking, you may be better off elsewhere. For a somewhat less crowded experience, try the North Carolina side of the park. You could camp at the Smokemont campground, which is located off of the Newfound Gap road. The next day, you might hike one of the trails from the Campground or you might head to the Oconaluftee Mountain Farm Museum, which is a couple of miles further down Newfound Gap road. Ranger-led walks, talks, and demonstrations are offered at both the campground and at the Oconaluftee Visitor center; check the park newspaper for details. If Smokemont and Oconaluftee are still too crowded for you, head over to the Cataloochee valley. This valley is similar to Cades Cove in that it offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and historic buildings, but without the crowds. It is a little more difficult to access, however. To get there from Interstate 40, tak
