One of the best ways to explore the Cades Cove area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is by bicycle! This is your chance to enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings of the Smokies, experience some fascinating historical sights, and maybe even spot some wildlife, all while pedaling along Cades Cove Loop Road! If you don’t have your own bike, there is a convenient bicycle rental facility at the entrance to the Loop Road with a wide selection of Fuji cruiser bikes for adults and children! Here are the top 4 things to know about Cades Cove bicycle rentals:
1. Bike Rental Hours and Reservations
The Cades Cove bicycle rentals are available at the Cades Cove Trading Company starting at 9 AM daily, except on Wednesdays when rentals begin at 7 AM. The bike rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early to avoid disappointment! The only day that you can make reservations is for Wednesdays, due to the popular vehicle-free days on Cades Cove Loop Road. If you are interested in a Wednesday reservation, contact the Cades Cove Trading Company at (865) 448-9034. Note that there are no same-week reservations, advance payment is required, and you must show up at 7 AM on Wednesdays for your rental.
2. Cades Cove Bicycle Rates
Another one of the top things to know about Cades Cove bicycle rentals is the rates! The 24” bikes are currently $10 per hour, while the adult bikes are $15 per hour. You can also take advantage of a 24-hour rental for $60. Note that groups of 4 to 6 people can enjoy a 5 percent discount while groups of 7 or more can enjoy a 10 percent discount. In addition, bicycle rentals are available at a discount during March and November. When planning your visit, be sure to check the latest bicycle rental rates at the Cades Cove Trading Company.
3. Biking the Cades Cove Loop Road
Cades Cove Loop Road is 11 miles, but you’ll find turnoffs at two different points if you prefer a shorter bike ride. Along the route, you’ll see numerous historic buildings that represent the homes, churches, and workplaces of Cades Cove residents during the 19th and early 20th centuries. While you can bike Cades Cove Loop Road on any day of the week, the loop is closed to automobile traffic from the first Wednesday of May to the last Wednesday of September each year.
4. Biker Safety and Rules of the Road
When riding along the loop, remember that cyclists must stay on the road and follow the same traffic rules as cars such as staying on the right side, obeying signs, and signaling turns. Always ride where you’ll be seen by motorists and make eye contact with drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Keep in mind that helmets are included with the rental price and it is strongly recommended that all riders wear helmets (it is mandatory that children age 16 and under wear a helmet in the State of Tennessee).
Now that you know all about the Cades Cove bicycle rentals, you’re all set to explore the Cades Cove Loop Road by bike! If you happen to bring your own bicycle along for an adventure in the Smokies, check out these top places you should visit for the best biking in the Smoky Mountains!
