The Ephraim Bales House is a historic homestead in Cades Cove, a scenic valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. The house was built in the mid-1800s by Ephraim Bales, a farmer and settler who lived in the area with his family.
The first European settlers arrived in the Cades Cove area in the early 1800s, with the first permanent settlement established in 1821. These settlers cleared the land and built homes, farms, and churches, living off the area's natural resources. The relationship between the settlers and the local Cherokee tribes was often fraught with conflict, as the settlers encroached on Cherokee land and resources. This tension ultimately led to the forced removal of the Cherokee people from the area in the Trail of Tears in the 1830s.
The Bales family lived in the homestead until the early 1900s when they abandoned the property due to declining land productivity and economic opportunities elsewhere. The house and surrounding property were eventually purchased by the National Park Service and added to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where they remain today as a reminder of the area's rich cultural and natural history.
Today, visitors can tour the Bales House and other historic buildings in Cades Cove, learning about the lives of the early settlers and their impact on the area. The homestead serves as a window into the past, offering a glimpse of the challenges and triumphs of those who lived in the area centuries ago.
Starting at Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After a short hike on the Appalachian Trail, you drive down to Newfound Gap and see the stunning park views.
Next, you continue your adventure by driving to the Alum Cave Trailhead, where you can embark on a challenging but rewarding hike to the Arch Rock formation. Along the way, you'll pass through lush forests and scenic landscapes, and you'll have the opportunity to see waterfalls, streams, and wildlife.
After completing your hike, drive to Cades Cove, which is a historic and picturesque valley located in the heart of the park. Here, you take a leisurely road trip through the valley, stopping at historical sites, churches, and other points of interest.
Finally, you end your day by visiting Gatlinburg, a charming and bustling town just outside the park. Here, you walk around and explore the shops, restaurants, and attractions and take in the unique culture and vibe of this iconic Smoky Mountain town.
Overall, this one-day road tour of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great way to experience the beauty, history, and culture of this iconic national park and the surrounding region. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a fun and memorable day trip, this itinerary has something for everyone.
