One of the most unique ways to experience Cades Cove Loop Road is with a guided hayride! Sit back and relax in a comfortable truck-pulled, hay-filled trailer as you enjoy a nostalgic ride around the loop with your family and friends! On your fully narrated adventure, you may even catch a glimpse of the wildlife inhabiting Cades Cove, such as white-tailed deer, black bears, raccoons, turkeys, and woodchucks! Here are the top 4 things to know about the Cades Cove hayrides:
1. What to Expect
The Cades Cove hayrides take you on a fun journey along the picturesque Cades Cove Loop Road, which is surrounded by preserved 19th and early 20th-century farming communities. During your ride, you’ll experience stunning views in every direction, wildlife sightings, and plenty of history in this fascinating area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Your knowledgeable guide will be on board to entertain you with tales of the early settlers and how they made a living from the land while creating a new community. Learn about farming, home life, religion, and recreation of our ancestors, as well as the challenges they faced as they settled in the area!
2. Dates, Times and Location
The guided hayrides in Cades Cove depart from the Cades Cove Riding Stables, which is adjacent to the Cades Cove Campground and near the start of the loop road. The hayride departure times are from March 3 to May 31 at 10 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM, June 1 through August 15 at 10 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, and 6 PM. and August 16 through season closing at 10 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM. Note that the hayrides last approximately anywhere between 90 minutes and 3 hours, depending upon the traffic on the loop road.
3. Hayride Reservations
Cades Cove hayrides are subject to a minimum of 2 riders per scheduled time and up to 55 riders. Due to the popularity of these rides, the Cades Cove Riding Stables accept reservations for groups of 15 riders or more with a signed tour contract and a 50 percent deposit. Keep in mind that all rides are subject to weather and trail conditions. To make your group reservations, simply contact the Cades Cove Riding Stables at (865) 448-9009. Otherwise, try to show up as early as possible to purchase your ticket and guarantee a spot on the hayride of your choice!
4. Cancellation Policy
Cancellation charges are based on the number of people in your party and the number of hours from check-in when the trip is canceled. Cancellations must be made by closing time in order to make cut-off dates. The refund amounts are as follows: full refund for 15 days or more notice, 50 percent of applicable charges for 8 to 14 days notice, and no refund for 7 days or less notice. The Cades Cove Riding Stables does allow for a one-time, no-charge cancellation to reschedule a hayride tour within one year during operational dates. The cancellation must be received within 24 hours for the rescheduling offer to apply.
Now that you know all about the Cades Cove hayrides, don’t miss the chance to enjoy this unique way to experience Cades Cove Loop Road! Did you know that you can explore the loop road by bike too? Check out these top 4 things to know about Cades Cove bicycle rentals!
