Kuwohi: Everything You Need to Know [2025 guide]

Kuwohi: Know Before You Go

How to Get to Kuwohi

Kuwohi is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina.

It is accessible via Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road), which leads visitors from the park’s main highway, U.S. Route 441, near Newfound Gap.

Great Smoky Parking Tags

There is not a fee to visit Kuwohi nor is there an entrance fee for Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

However, you will need to purchase a parking tag.

Parking tags are required in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are three different tags you can purchase.

Daily pass for $5, weekly pass for $15, or an annual pass for $40. Daily and weekly tags may be purchased online HERE and annual tags can be purchased online HERE, or on-site.

Parking tags are NOT required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes, or while parked at their designated campsite. 

Entrance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is FREE, but a parking tag is required.

Find more information about parking tags HERE.

Kuwohi Name Restored

Kuwohi, pronounced Koo-wo-hee, means “Mulberry Place” in the Cherokee language, honoring the deep connection the Cherokee Nation has to the region.

The mountain holds significant cultural importance, as it is sacred in Cherokee oral tradition and symbolizes the enduring heritage of the Indigenous peoples who have called this land home for centuries.

Previously named Clingmans Dome after Confederate General Thomas Clingman, the renaming to Kuwohi reflects an important effort to acknowledge and respect the mountain’s original stewards, the Cherokee people.

Best Time to Visit Kuwohi

Kuwohi offers something special in every season, from vibrant wildflowers to snow-covered peaks.

Each time of year brings its own beauty and unique experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Spring (April to June): Expect to see colorful wildflowers like trilliums and rhododendrons lining the trails.

Cool temperatures make hiking enjoyable, and wildlife activity increases as animals emerge from winter.

Be prepared for unpredictable weather by bringing layers and a rain jacket.

Summer (July to August): The cooler air at higher elevations offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Since summer is a popular time to visit, try to go early or on weekdays to avoid the crowds.

Afternoon thunderstorms are pretty common, so pack a light rain jacket.

Also, bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun as well as plenty of water and snacks if you plan to hike any of the trails.

🌄 Tip: Watch sunrise or sunset from the observation tower!

Those are my favorite times of the day to visit Kuwohi.

Just be aware that the weather can quickly change resulting in zero visibility.

Fall (September to November): Kuwohi becomes a haven for leaf peepers as the trees burst into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.

Cool, crisp air makes for ideal hiking weather, and the clearer skies offer stunning long-range views.

This is a busy season, so plan to arrive early or visit midweek to enjoy the scenery with fewer people.

Winter (December to March): Kuwohi transforms into a quiet, snow-draped wonderland.

The bare trees show off different views of the mountains, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat.

Bring extra layers to keep yourself warm and traction devices for icy trails.

Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road) closes in the winter (December through late March), but the observation tower remains open year-round!

There are two ways to reach the tower if the road is closed:

1. Kuwohi Road: Park near the beginning of Kuwohi Road and walk up the road towards the observation tower. This is a challenging 17.5-mile roundtrip hike.
2. Newfound Gap to Kuwohi: Take the Appalachian Trail from the Newfound Gap parking area to the Kuwohi observation tower and back for a challenging 15-mile roundtrip hike.

⚠️ Make sure you check the current conditions before your trip! Also, look at the conditions at Kuwohi on the live webcam.

Parking (+ what to do if the parking lot is full)

The parking area is located at the end of Kuwohi Road near Newfound Gap.

This is one of my favorite parking lots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park because of the incredible views!

You don’t even have to hike anywhere to see beautiful panoramas of the mountain range.

However, I still recommend hiking to the Kuwohi observation tower (or to Andrews Bald) for more jaw-dropping views!

At the Kuwohi parking area, you’ll find a visitor center, pit toilets (closed during winter), and 167 parking spots.

While the ample parking can accommodate many visitors, it tends to fill up quickly during peak season!

✨ READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors

What to do and what not to do if the parking lot is full:

• Have a backup plan already in place just in case you can’t find any parking.
• If the parking lot is full, consider hiking another trail nearby then check back later in there’s any available spots.
• Plan to take a shuttle if you know you will be visiting at a busy time during peak season.
• Do not park in areas that clearly state “no parking”.
• Always park with all four wheels out of the roadway.
• The best way to snag a parking spot is to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening.

Tips for First Time Visitors

1. Arrive Early: As mentioned above, the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Arriving early ensures you’ll have a better chance of securing a spot and avoiding the crowds.

2. Dress in Layers: The weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures much cooler at the summit than at lower elevations.

Dress in layers and bring a jacket, even in summer.

3. Prepare for a Steep Hike: The paved trail to the summit is short but steep, with a 13% grade.

While it’s manageable for most people, it can be challenging, so be sure to pace yourself and take breaks at the benches along the way.

4. Bring Water and Snacks: There are no services or food available at the summit, so pack plenty of water and snacks for your hike.

Staying hydrated is especially important during warmer months.

5. Check the Weather: Kuwohi is known for its rapidly changing weather.

Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden rain or cooler temperatures.

6. Leave No Trace: Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Kuwohi is a sacred place for the Cherokee people, and respecting the natural surroundings is essential.

7. Plan for Limited Amenities: There are limited facilities at the top, including restrooms that are closed in winter, so plan accordingly.

The visitor center near the parking area offers helpful information.

8. Wheelchair Accessible: The National Park Service states the path up to the observation tower is too steep to be wheelchair accessible.

However, it’s not impossible.

Visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers will need assistance along the route due to 13% graded incline.

Please know your limits if you are the one doing the pushing.

Don’t put others or yourself at risk for an accident.

9. Bicycles: They are not allowed on the paved trail leading to the observation tower, but you can ride them along Kuwohi Road to the parking area.

There’s a convenient bike rack where you can securely lock up your bike before hitting the trails.

10. Take Time to Explore: Beyond the observation tower, the surrounding area has scenic vistas and hiking trails worth exploring.

Don’t rush your visit!

11. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

Hiking Trails at Kuwohi

Kuwohi Observation Tower (1 mile)

The paved trail leads you to an observation tower perched at the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains – Kuwohi.

The summit offers stunning panoramic views that stretch for miles!

The hike features a steep 13% graded incline.

That’ll get your heart rate going!

While the trail is short and paved, it’s easy to underestimate how tough it can be.

Fortunately, there are benches along the way so you can take frequent breaks and catch your breath.

It’s an achievable hike for most people but be prepared – it’s a tough one!

• Trailhead Location: Located at the end of Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road), seven miles from Newfound Gap Road.
• Length: 1 mile
• Elevation Gain: 330 feet
• Hiking Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Difficulty Rating: Challenging
• Pet-friendly? No
• Trail Map

Andrews Bald via Forney Ridge Trail (3.6 miles)

Sitting at an elevation of 5,920 feet, Andrews Bald is the highest grassy bald in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

This stunning open meadow offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a popular spot for both hikers and photographers.

• Trailhead Location: Located at the end of Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road), seven miles from Newfound Gap Road.
• Length: 3.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 900 feet
• Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours
• Route Type: Out-and-back hike
• Difficulty Rating: Moderately challenging
• Pet-friendly? No
• Trail Map

Newfound Gap to Kuwohi (15 miles)

Embark on a memorable hike along the iconic Appalachian Trail from Newfound Gap to Kuwohi.

This challenging 15-mile route offers a rewarding backcountry experience, perfect for avid hikers.

It’s especially ideal when Kuwohi Road is closed in winter, providing a peaceful escape with stunning mountain views.

• Trailhead Location: Located at the Newfound Gap parking area off Highway 441 (Newfound Gap Road).
• Length: 15 miles
• Elevation Gain: 3,600 feet
• Hiking Time: 7.5 to 9.5 hours
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Difficulty Rating: Challenging
• Pet-friendly? No
• Trail Map

More Fun Things to Do Near Kuwohi

Here’s a list of more exciting activities near Kuwohi!

While this is just a glimpse of what’s available, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its charming nearby towns offer endless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and relaxation.

Heading towards Gatlinburg, TN:

• Explore Newfound Gap
• Hike the Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion (8 miles roundtrip)
• Hike the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte (11 miles roundtrip)
• Hike the Chimney Tops Trail (3.8 miles roundtrip)
• Have lunch at the Chimneys Picnic Area
• Visit Sugarlands Visitor Center
• Drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (5.5-mile one-way scenic loop)
• Hike to Rainbow Falls (5.5 miles roundtrip)
• Hike to Grotto Falls (2.8 miles roundtrip)
• Explore Gatlinburg, TN

Heading towards Cherokee, NC:

• Hike the Kephart Prong Trail to Kephart Shelter (4 miles roundtrip)
• Visit the Mingus Mill
• Visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and the Mountain Farm Museum
• Hike to Mingo Falls (0.3 miles roundtrip)
• Hike the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop (2.5 miles roundtrip)
• Explore Cherokee, NC
• Explore Bryson City, NC

Conclusion

Kuwohi is a one-of-a-kind destination, blending natural beauty with deep cultural significance in the Appalachian Mountains.

If you are visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the first time, don’t miss Kuwohi!

Plan your visit using my guide, respect Kuwohi’s history, and create unforgettable memories at this Smoky Mountain gem.

If this guide inspires you to visit Kuwohi, I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!