Cades Cove
A Wild + Romantic Elopement Spot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Where History Meets Natural Beauty
If you’re searching for a ceremony location that feels timeless, expansive, and a little bit wild—Cades Cove might be your dream spot.
Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove offers sweeping mountain views, historic chapels, open meadows, and woodland backdrops—all wrapped in the quiet beauty of one of the most beloved places in the park.
What Makes Cades Cove Special
- 360° mountain views that change with the seasons
- Wildflower-strewn fields, forests, and valley roads
- Access to 3 historic white chapels (Primitive Baptist, Missionary Baptist, and Methodist)
- Deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears (oh my!)
- A sense of stillness and sacredness you can’t replicate anywhere else
Location
Cades Cove
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Access via Cades Cove Loop Road, near Townsend, TN
Things to Know Before You Book
- National Park permit is required. You’ll need to apply for a Special Use Permit from the GSMNP (usually $50–$150).
- Ceremonies must follow park rules—no amplified sound, no décor left behind, and limited guest counts depending on the location.
- Traffic can be intense, especially during peak seasons. Plan for extra time on the loop road and consider weekday or sunrise ceremonies.
Pro tip: Cades Cove is best for elopements and micro weddings with 2–20 people. Larger gatherings may need to look elsewhere.
Ceremony Site Options
- Primitive Baptist Church – Rustic white church tucked in the trees
- Missionary Baptist Church – Classic front porch for cozy portraits
- Methodist Church – The most open and accessible
- Open Fields + Wooded Trails – Perfect for nature-loving couples (with proper permit)
Cost
The location itself is free, but you must obtain a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service.
Permit fees range from $50–$150, depending on your location and group size.
You are responsible for:
- Bringing your own officiant and photographer
- Following all national park guidelines
- Securing guests’ transportation (no shuttles provided)
👉 Learn More About GSMNP Wedding Permits »
Best for Couples Who…
- Want a ceremony with epic scenery and zero frills
- Are nature lovers, hikers, or national park fans
- Don’t mind a little unpredictability (hello, wildlife!)
- Want authentic moments in one of the most photographed places in the South
See It in Action
Tags
#CadesCoveWedding #SmokyMountainElopement #NationalParkElopement #OutdoorCeremony #GSMNPWedding
Photography by Star Noir Photography
