Make your next outdoor adventure one to remember by planning a fun and exciting Cades Cove biking tour. Not only does this give you a unique way to explore this beautiful area, it also allows you to enjoy a bit of exercise during your trip.
To make sure you are prepared for your two-wheel journey, read through all of our Cades Cove biking tips below!
1. Pick the Perfect Time
For us, there is not time that isn’t perfect to go biking in Cades Cove. However, there are some times that are better than others, like when the roadway is closed from auto traffic.
Every year, from early May to late September the National Park Service closes the Cades Cove Loop Road from auto traffic on Wednesday and Saturday mornings until 10 a.m. This gives anyone wanting to bike or walk the loop road a chance to do so without having to worry about keeping an eye out for cars.
2. Rent Your Bike
You don’t have to own a bike to enjoy a day of Cades Cove biking. All you have to do is swing by the Cades Cove Campground Store and pick up one of their many bike rentals.
There, you and your family or group will be able to pick your choice bike to use to enjoy a day of exploring the Cades Cove area. Even better, some of the bikes and helmets have been equipped with special GoPro cameras so you can document your journey.
We suggest you plan to get to the store early, as bikes are rented on a first come first serve basis. However, large groups can reserve a block of bikes by calling the store.
Please keep in mind, bike rentals may not be available during peak season.
Prices for bike rentals from the Cades Cove Campground Store are on an hourly basis. Helmets are included with all rentals.
3. Fuel Up Before You Go
Although the Cades Cove Loop Road is only 11 miles in total, it is a pretty hilly journey. The hills aren’t so strenuous you will have trouble biking the area, but it does mean that it will take a little more energy than your casual ride around the neighborhood.
That is why we suggest you remember to eat a hearty meal before you go Cades Cove biking. We also suggest you bring an extra water bottle or two so you can stay hydrated on the roadway.
You can also bring a backpack and pack a light picnic for you and your family or group to enjoy either during your ride or when your adventure is over.
4. Make New Friends
One of the things we love about Cades Cove biking is that there is always a ton of friendly folks you meet along the way you can share this experience with. As a result, you have tons of opportunities to make new friends and extend your adventure to even more adventure lovers like yourself.
Having these fellow bikers around also gives you a good support group if you need an extra boost to conquer a hill or a second wind to finish the trail.
There are also several national park staff members located at various stations along the roadway. They are here to assist you in any way you may need, including giving directions in case you get turned around.
5. Don’t Rush
Last, but not least, we want to remind you to take your time when you are Cades Cove biking. There are a countless number of scenic views and historic homesites for you to explore when you are here. That is why you definitely do not want to rush your bike ride.
It doesn’t matter if you are visiting during one of the times where the roadway is closed from car traffic or not, you always have plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking views this area is known for.
With all of these amazing views for you to see, we definitely want to remind you to pack a camera so you can capture these amazing views to remember for years to come.
For a better idea of what to expect when you go Cades Cove biking, don’t forget to check out our Cades Cove Loop Road map! There, you will find a detailed description of all of the historical and picturesque sights you will find along the roadway.
