22 Unforgettable Adventures in National Parks Across America

21. Biking the Car-Free Roads of Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Deep in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cades Cove is a breathtaking valley ringed by rolling mountains, filled with meadows of wildflowers, historic log cabins, and abundant wildlife. While most visitors experience this area from the seat of a car, there's a far better way to explore it—by bicycle. From May to September, Wednesdays are car-free days, meaning that for one day a week, cyclists can ride the scenic 11-mile loop without worrying about vehicle traffic. This unique opportunity transforms Cades Cove into a peaceful paradise, where the only sounds are birds singing, the wind rustling through the trees, and the occasional snort of a whitetail deer grazing nearby. The bike-friendly route takes you past centuries-old churches, pioneer homesteads, and the John Oliver Cabin, a preserved 19th-century dwelling that offers a glimpse into Appalachian life in the early 1800s. In spring and summer, the fields explode with colorful wildflowers, while in the fall, the valley is bathed in stunning shades of red, orange, and gold.