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From the Great Smoky Mountains World / Itineraries

Andrews Bald and Kuwohi summit views

Begin at Kuwohi Visitor Center, walk the Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, and return past the parking area for the steep paved climb to Kuwohi Observation Tower.

Andrews Bald and Kuwohi summit views

Why go

This route is for hikers who want two different high-country views from the same parking area. Start at Kuwohi Visitor Center before taking the Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, a 3.6-mile round trip with a climb on the return. Back at the parking area, follow the separate paved path uphill to Kuwohi Observation Tower. The tower walk is only half a mile each way, but it is steep; keep some energy for that final ascent and descent. Both viewpoints depend on visibility, and Kuwohi Road has a seasonal schedule as well as weather-related closures. Check the road status and forecast before committing to the drive.

The route, stop by stop

World itinerary estimate: 70–200 min

Times are planning estimates. Unknown visit durations start at an editable 30 minutes; access is checked separately.

  1. 01

    Main stop · 20–30 min

    Kuwohi Visitor Center

    Use this seasonal high-country center for information before the steep walk to Kuwohi Observation Tower. Road and weather conditions govern access.

    Explore
  2. Walk · 31 min · Estimated

    02

    Main stop · 25–40 min

    Andrews Bald

    Walk 3.6 miles round trip from the Kuwohi area to a grassy high-country opening. Kuwohi Road is seasonal, and cloud or wind can hide the view.

    Explore
  3. Walk · 42 min · Estimated

    03

    Main stop · 25–40 min

    Kuwohi Observation Tower

    Walk a steep paved path from the Kuwohi parking area to the park’s highest summit and a 360-degree observation tower.

    Explore

Original World content and translations, shown as supplied. Practical information may need updating.

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