Cades Cove may be one of my favorite spots to recommend to couples eloping to Gatlinburg, especially if you are looking for an intimate ceremony! Eloping in Cades Cove offers a stunning mountain backdrop, potential wildlife sightings, and a romantic setting under the trees. However, it’s essential to adhere to specific regulations to ensure your ceremony aligns with park guidelines and preserves the natural beauty of the area. Today I am sharing what you need to know for your Cades Cove elopement!
Special Use Permit Requirement
All weddings, elopements, and similar ceremonies in the park require a Special Use Permit (SUP). To obtain this permit, you need to first submit a completed application along with a non-refundable $50 fee at least 30 days before your event. If you apply less than 30 days in advance, an additional $100 late fee applies. It’s important to note that obtaining a wedding permit does not exempt you from the park’s parking tag requirement!
Designated Ceremony Locations & Restrictions
Ceremonies are limited to designated locations within the park. In Cades Cove, popular spots include the Wildlife Overlook and historic churches. Each location has specific capacity limits and time restrictions. For instance, outdoor locations typically allow up to 25 people and 6 vehicles for a maximum of one hour. Historic churches may accommodate up to 50 people and 8 vehicles for 1.5 hours. Knowing any restrictions for your location before hand will eliminate a lot of stress while planning and during your elopement.
Prohibited Items & Activities
To protect the park’s natural and historical resources, certain items and activities are prohibited during ceremonies. These include:
- Decorations like arches, carpet runners, balloons, confetti, and flower petals.
- Open flames, including candles and oil lamps.
- Sound amplification equipment, such as microphones and speakers.
- Seating arrangements, except for up to six chairs for guests with special needs.
- Food and beverages, including wedding cakes, in or near historic structures.
- The release of live animals, drones, and any activity that may disturb wildlife.
In addition, all decorations and materials brought in for the ceremony must be removed immediately afterward. The permit holder is responsible for ensuring the site remains clean and undisturbed.
Respecting Wildlife & Park Resources
Cades Cove is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including deer and black bears. It’s imperative to maintain a safe distance from all animals and avoid any actions that may disturb them. Approaching wildlife within 50 yards or any behavior that disrupts their natural activities is strictly prohibited. Moreover, all vehicles must be parked in designated areas, and the use of drones is not allowed within the park.
By following these guidelines, you ensure that your elopement in Cades Cove is not only memorable, but also respectful of the park’s environment and regulations. And if all of this sounds a bit overwhelming, no worries! As your elopement planner I take care of all the permits so you dont have to! Reach out to start planning your Cade’s Cove elopement!
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