Whether you just drive through or stop for lunch in the picnic area, Cades Cove offers a gateway to so much that it's well worth visiting any time of year. Read the original article on Explore.

But it's no cause for concern. Planned controlled burn operations are expected to occur in the Cades Cove area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, closing some roads and possibly causing delays ...

Several hiking trails, including one to Abrams Falls, begin in the Cades Cove area. Longer hikes, including Gregory Bald and Rocky Top, also start here but are better suited for experienced hikers ...