Cades Cove is the most visited part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and we can see the draw.  Easy hikes, and the promise of wildlife.  The National Park Service has done a great job of “Disneyifying” the park, making the great outdoors accessible to even the most out-of-shape folks.  We set our expectations accordingly, and didn’t let the crowds or the road traffic bother us.  We were rewarded with beautiful views, several deer within fifty feet of us, and 7 bears – 2 mothers with cubs.  Nice!

Who You Lookin' At?
Who You Lookin’ At?

Oh, DeerOh, Deer

Ouch!

Ouch!

Cantilever Barn

Cantilever BarnTipton PlaceTipton Place

Rut RohRut Roh