Cades Cove Vehicle Free Wednesdays begin May 6, 2026 and end September 30, 2026.
Here’s what you need to know if you plan to visit Cades Cove for a vehicle-free day:
- If you park your vehicle within park boundaries for more than 15 minutes, then a parking pass is required. Purchase here. Parking is only allowed within designated spots and is limited. You can NOT park along the loop.
- Children under 16 are required by law to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
- There are bike rentals near the campground store.
- There will be no cell signal. Plan accordingly.
- Pack what you need! There is a campground store at the end of the loop, but nothing along the loop.
- Only Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes (e-bikes) are permitted in the park. All bikes must follow the posted speed limit of 20 miles per hour.
- The campground and picnic areas are still open on vehicle-free days.
- You don’t have to bike, you can also choose to walk the loop on vehicle-free days.
Pack your backpack, load up your bikes, and have a fun summer adventure in Cades Cove!
