If you’re looking for the perfect place to tie the knot in the Smoky Mountains, look no further than Cades Cove! This spectacular valley is surrounded by mountains and was once home to numerous settlers before the formation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so you’ll find several historic churches where you can get married! There are also two approved outdoor spots to get married in the Cove, both of which offer magnificent views! Here are 5 beautiful locations for a Cades Cove wedding ceremony:
1. Cades Cove Wildlife Overlook
The Cades Cove Wildlife Overlook is the most popular outdoor location for wedding ceremonies as it features sweeping views across the cove, complete with the beauty of the Smokies in the background! The overlook is situated about a half mile past the Missionary Baptist Church and it features a trail that you can walk down for a panoramic view of the mountains. As a bonus, it is far enough away from the parking lot to reduce any potential traffic noise!
2. Primitive Baptist Church
The Primitive Baptist Church is the first church along Cades Cove Loop Road and there is plenty of parking available outside in a large gravel lot. The interior of this historic church is dark brown wood, making it the darkest church in Cades Cove. Therefore, it’s an excellent option for those who prefer a dark and rustic feel!
3. LeQuire Cemetery Overlook
Another one of the beautiful locations for a Cades Cove wedding ceremony is the LeQuire Cemetery Overlook, which features stunning mountain views and a wide, open field with a gorgeous tree! The overlook is found along Spark Lane, which is just after the entrance to Cades Cove Loop Road. Once turning left onto Spark Lane, you only have to drive about 0.3 miles to reach this amazing destination!
4. Methodist Church
The Methodist Church is also a wonderful choice for a Cades Cove wedding, as it sits in a lovely location on a hill on the right side of the Loop Road! The current building was constructed in 1902 and features light white walls with windows that welcome natural light. There is a short trail just outside the church that leads to a large field with mountains in the background, which is a fantastic place to take photos after your ceremony!
5. Missionary Baptist Church
The Missionary Baptist Church was the first Baptist church in Cades Cove and features light wood inside with large windows, allowing plenty of natural light for photos! This was the first Baptist church in Cades Cove and the current building was constructed in 1915. It is also the last church along the Loop Road and you’ll find a small parking lot just outside.
A Brief Note About Wedding Permits in the National Park
Keep in mind that weddings in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park require a permit from the park and must follow specific guidelines. When planning a wedding ceremony, the completed applications for a Special Use Permit (along with a non-refundable $50 application fee) must be received by the park at least 14 days prior to your event.
Now that you know about some of the beautiful locations to hold a Cades Cove wedding, you can start planning the perfect ceremony in the Smokies! If you want to learn even more about the indoor wedding locations, check out the fascinating history of the churches in Cades Cove!
