Beyond Blessed

09/22/2026

We asked our Facebook followers if Cades Cove is still worth it with all the traffic. Here is what they said, plus the current parking fees, the car-free Wednesday schedule, and the honest timing advice that actually holds up.

07/01/2026

As of July 1, there will be a $250 fine to anyone feeding the bears or leaving food out for bears. A new Tennessee law. 

06/23/2026

Looks like last chance for Hard rock fans! 

The Hard Rock Cafe in Pigeon Forge is set to close later this summer, according to documents filed with the state.

The business filed an official WARN Notice with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, which are documents filed when a business plans to close permanently with large layoffs, on June 19.

According to the documents, Hard Rock Cafe will permanently shut its doors on August 23, laying off 61 employees.

🔗 https://www.wbir.com/article/news/local/sevierville-sevier/pigeon-forge-hard-rock-cafe-close-august-laying-off-more-than-60-employees/51-358e0cc8-3bc3-4075-aca1-b05bb6f94881
✍️ Ainslee Raasch, Multi-Platform Producer

05/29/2026

05/23/2026

100 years ago today, important steps were taken toward creating Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

While the Smokies weren't officially established until 1934, it was on May 22, 1926, that President Calvin Coolidge signed the bill authorizing its creation.

Whether you come to the Smokies to hike the 848 miles of trails, drive the eight scenic auto tours, discover the 22,000+ documented species, or learn about the region's rich cultural history, thank you for being part of the Smokies story. Your love for this place helps us protect Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the next 100 years and beyond.

05/23/2026

05/19/2026

Heading to the Smokies? Don’t forget your parking tag 👀🏔️🚗

If you’re parking for more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll need a valid parking pass.

You can grab one at spots like:
📍 Sugarlands Visitor Center
📍 Cades Cove Visitor Center
📍 Kuwohi Parking Area (formerly known as Clingmans Dome)
📍 Newfound Gap Overlook kiosk
📍 Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area kiosk

Or purchase one online before your trip.

🎟️ Daily: $5
🎟️ Weekly: $15
🎟️ Annual: $40

The fees help support and preserve the park so we can all keep enjoying these views for years to come 🌲

https://www.pigeonforge.com/park-it-forward/

05/19/2026

CADES COVE TIMING: check timing, parking, crowds, routes, and practical local notes before you go.