Cades Cove

Sight·Great Smoky Mountains National ParkRecommended by 2 publications

In the coverage2 stories

OutsideApr 10

In Defense of Visiting the Obvious Places (Like Crowded National Parks)

I’ve spent my career writing about under-appreciated gems and getting away from the crowds. But there’s something to be said for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with a bunch of strangers and staring at something gorgeous—especially in the times we’re living in right now.

pastoral valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

7 things in this story
  • Cades CoveSightpastoral valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Elsewhere
  • El CapitanSightYosemite National Park, United Statesrising from Yosemite Valley
  • Old FaithfulHotelYellowstone National Park, United Statesdependable natural wonder in Yellowstone
  • Yosemite ValleyHotelYosemite National Park, United Statesobvious place, worth the hassle
  • Angels LandingTrailZion National Park, United Statespopular hike requiring a lottery
  • The NarrowsTrailZion National Park, United States
  • Jackson LakeSightGrand Teton National Park, United States
Read the full piece at Outside →

Condé Nast TravelerDec 4, 2025

The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the US

“America the Beautiful,” indeed.

Verdant valley with wildlife viewing opportunities.

5 things in this story
  • Cades CoveSightVerdant valley with wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Elsewhere
  • Grand Prismatic SpringSightYellowstone National Park, United StatesLargest hot spring in the US, a rainbow ring of colors.
  • Highway 1HotelBig Sur, United StatesIconic American road trip route along the coast.
  • Angel OakSightCharleston, United StatesOne of the most beautiful places in America.
  • Clay Head PreserveSightBlock Island, United States190-acre nature conservancy with walking paths.
Read the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →
More sights in Great Smoky Mountains National ParkElkmont CampgroundLittle RiverFoothills Parkway West
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