A Local Photographer’s Guide to Family Photos in Cades Cove
Cades Cove is one of the most beloved spots in the Smokies, and for good reason. This 11-mile loop is packed with jaw-dropping mountain views, wide open fields, rustic old cabins, weathered churches, and the quiet presence of deer, turkey, and (if you’re lucky!) even black bears. It can feel like stepping back in time!
Since moving here, my family has spent so many slow Saturdays winding our way through this valley. It’s a favorite for us, and for a lot of photography clients too! It’s also a bit trickier than other spots I shoot in (I’ll explain why below!), but if you’re up for a little bit of adventure and a lot of natural beauty, it just might be the perfect location for your family session.
Best Spots for Family Photos in Cades Cove
If you want the best views for photos with the fewest stops, here’s my ideal route:
1. Sparks Lane
This is one of the first turn-offs on the loop and it’s a showstopper right away. Think: tree-lined dirt road, mountains rising up in the distance, golden light streaming through the fields. It’s a favorite spot for a reason.
If your crew is up for a longer adventure, I love to head further into the loop for a stop at the Cades Cove Overlook. The views here are wide and breathtaking, you can see the whole valley stretch out around you. It's is SO worth sitting in traffic for the chance to stop here, if you prepare with snacks and drinks ahead of time.
Need a shorter route?
If you have little ones who don’t love being in the car for long stretches, there’s a great shortcut: we can photograph at Sparks Lane, then pop over to LeQuire Cemetery at the end of that road. It’s peaceful and beautiful in a quieter way, with lovely views and minimal crowds. (I promise, it doesn't actually look like a cemetery!)
What to expect in Cades Cove (and why it's worth it!)
Cades Cove is popular—which means it can get busy. Especially in the warmer months and on weekends, traffic can slow to a crawl, sometimes taking up to 4 hours to make it all the way through the loop. (People stop for wildlife sightings and don't always pull off the road to make room for people to go around.)
To make the most of your session:
- Plan for a weekday (if you book with me, I only book weekdays at Cades Cove unless your session is in the winter - The traffic is just too much on weekends. Haha!)
- Avoid weekends and holidays if possible
- Arrive early in the morning for a gorgeous sunrise session or aim for two hours before sunset.
- Bring all the things you might need in the car—snacks, water, diapers, a little patience, and a sense of humor
Note for Summer 2025: From June 18 to September 24, the loop will be closed to cars every Wednesday until 10 a.m.—perfect for biking or a quiet morning walk without traffic!
Who is this spot great for?
Cades Cove is an absolutely stunning and magazine worthy place for families who are up for the ride - literally and figuratively. If your kids love spotting animals out the window, if you enjoy a little history, and want magazine worthy views in your photos, and if you're looking to make a memory as much as get some photos, this is the place.
But if your toddler hates the car seat or you’re just not up for sitting in traffic? That’s okay too. I’ll help you choose a location that works for your family. We can always stick to Sparks Lane and Lequire Cemetery and call it a day, or choose one of the many other beautiful spots I shoot in that don’t require as much drive time.
What to pack for your Cades Cove photography session?
This isn’t your typical pull-up-and-go session. I recommend bringing:
- Water and non-messy snacks (treats for the kids are always a good idea!)
- Extra diapers and wipes if you’ve got little ones
- Binoculars or a camera if you want to explore after our session
- Bug spray for ticks + mosquitoes
There are bathrooms at the visitor's center toward the end of the loop (with a really cool historical area that you should totally check out if you have time!) but there aren't other bathrooms in Cades Cove that I have seen.
Places to Stay Near Cades Cove
Little Arrow Outdoor Resort
One of the best campgrounds in the state! Just outside the park in Townsend, it offers everything from glamping tents to cabins to RV spots. This is one my family really wants to stay at someday, it's family-friendly, clean, and has beautiful views nearby.
Cades Cove Campground
A great option for a rustic experience with close access to the loop. It's more traditional camping, but still has bathrooms and drinking water.
Where to Eat + Grab Coffee
A local staple known for its hearty breakfasts and (trust me) fried apple pies. Perfect for refueling after your Cades Cove adventure. They also have packed lunches that you can grab if you don't have anything convenient at home.
Don’t Miss the Chance to Capture These Memories
Whether you're planning your Smoky Mountains vacation or you're a local who’s always loved Cades Cove, I’d be honored to help you capture this season of life with your family. I go out here all the time and will guide you through every step so you can focus on being present with your family, capturing the beautiful love of family life surrounded by absolutely stunning mountain views taking your family photos to the next level.
Want to learn more? Check out my Family Experience page, or Meet Me - You can also scroll through my blog posts to read more about outfit styling, creating heartfelt connection in family photos, and more. Reach out with any questions! I love meeting new families and I'm excited for your family to get to experience the beauty that my family and I love so much about living here near the Great Smokies!
