The first settler to the area was Aaron Crowson in 1792. What is known as Wears Valley today was once referred to as Crowson Cove. A little over 100 years later, the area was renamed to Wear Cove in honor of Revolutionary war veteran Samuel Wear.
Today, Wears Valley is most well known for its wonderful views of the Smokies. The area becomes especially popular in the fall months, when the Smoky Mountain trees turn from deep green to bright reds, oranges and yellows. Wears Valley is a perfect place to go if you’re looking to take photos of the mountains, any time of the year, because you can get a panoramic shot of the mountainside without any trouble.
At only 3 miles wide and 5 miles long, it’s a small area, but that has no bearing on the great things to do in Wears Valley. The two most popular hiking trails in Wears Valley are Metcalf Bottoms and Laurel Falls, both great for families who want to get out and explore a little bit of the national park.
You will also find that the just far enough away from the main Parkway, but close enough that you won’t have to drive far to get to the action-packed cities of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Things to Do in Wears Valley TN
Even though Wears Valley is known for beautiful views and natural surroundings, there are lots of fun things to do in Wears Valley when you visit. Start planning your vacation by taking a look through all of our favorite things to do in Wears Valley.
If you are looking for a relaxing place to spend the day, Wears Valley is the place for you! You’re guaranteed to fall in love with it, so rent a Wears Valley cabin rental, pack your bags and head to the Smokies!
This place is perfect for picnics, hikes, TUBING, or just grab a book, and sit down on a bench by the river, and let the day just be YOURS! Perfect for families, groups traveling together, and they do have pavilions that can be rented and secured for parties, reunions, etc.
Once home to the area’s well known “ghost town”, this unique place is always near the “perfect spot” to take selfie, get some great nature shots, cool off in the river access area, or find the elusive “fairy house” which is located in the area. The Fairy House is off of the Twin Creeks Trail.
Cades Cove is a one way motor route, located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. It can be quite peaceful at times, and others may be very busy, depending on the time of day, and the time of year when you visit. Nature sightings of wildlife such as Bears, Deer, Turkey, and much more await you along the way.