05/06/2026 to 09/30/2026
Walk, run or bike the scenic 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road without motor vehicle traffic every Wednesday from May 6 through September 30, 2026. A valid parking tag is required.
Cades Cove Vehicle-Free Wednesdays 2026
Dates: Every Wednesday, May 6–September 30, 2026
Time: All day, during regular Cades Cove Loop Road hours
Location: Cades Cove Loop Road, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Parking: A valid Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag is required when parking for longer than 15 minutes.
Experience one of the most scenic areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park without the usual motor vehicle traffic during Cades Cove Vehicle-Free Wednesdays. Every Wednesday from May 6 through September 30, 2026, the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road will be reserved for cyclists, runners and pedestrians.
Explore the historic valley at a relaxed pace while enjoying mountain views, open meadows, wildlife viewing opportunities and some of the park’s best-known historic structures. Visitors may walk, run or ride a traditional bicycle along the paved loop. Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes are also permitted, while Class 3 e-bikes, scooters, skateboards and similar devices are prohibited. All cyclists must follow the posted 20-mile-per-hour speed limit.
Vehicle-Free Wednesdays are especially popular, and designated parking spaces can fill quickly during the morning. Visitors may enjoy a more relaxed arrival by coming later in the day. Illegally or roadside-parked vehicles may be ticketed or towed.
Guests should bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing and a basic first-aid kit. The loop includes several hills, offers limited shade and has little to no cellular service. Cyclists should also carry basic bicycle repair supplies. Helmets are strongly recommended for everyone and are legally required for riders younger than 16.
The Cades Cove campground, picnic area, horse stables and campground store remain open on Vehicle-Free Wednesdays. Bicycle rentals are available near the campground store, although demand can be high.
Upcoming Dates
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Wednesday, September 30, 2026