From the entrance of Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you will travel 6.2 miles to the trailhead. Depending on traffic, it will take approximately 27 minutes to arrive.
A large parking area is available for hikers. Be sure to obtain a parking permit at a park station.
Three tag durations are available for purchase for all vehicle sizes and types:
Daily - $5
Weekly - $15
Annual - $40
Parking tags are not replaceable, refundable, transferable, or upgradable.
Each tag is valid for a single vehicle and must include a license plate number matching the vehicle in which it is displayed.
Parking tags are available for purchase both online and onsite.
Display of physical parking tags in each vehicle is required. Digital representations are not accepted.
Parking tags are not location-specific. A parking tag is required to park anywhere within the boundaries of the Smokies.
Parking tags are not required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes.
Interagency passes (senior, access, etc.) are not accepted in lieu of a parking tag.