The Iconic Trail in North Carolina Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

The Kuwohi Observation Tower, formally known as Clingmans Dome, is a must-see when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are so many great hikes in North Carolina, but I would put this one near the top of the list. Not only are the views specacular, but it's easier to get to than you would think! Of course, an added perk is the surrounding trails so you can make this adventure as challenging or easy as you want. I have been up to this mountain multiple times and here is everything you need to know so you can enjoy this wonderful view too. 

Why Did Clingmans Dome Change Its Name to Kuwohi

The name of this iconic spot in the Smokies changed from Clingmans Dome to Kuwohi in September 2024. The name change came about as a way to honor and tell the story of the land. Long before it was known as an observation tower, this summit was named by the Cherokee people. These natives are a proud people, and their story is being honored by a simple name change that the National Parks Service was highly in favor of. The name Kuwohi is what the Cherokee people named the mountain many years earlier, and it translates to Mulberry Place. The history of the land is greatly tied to the people who came before us and this is one simple way the park system is working on preserving that story.

What To Expect When You Visit Kuwohi Observation Tower

The Kuwohi Observation Tower is the highest point in the Smokies, and with that elevation, you will have an unobstructed 360-degree view of the mountains. This jaw-dropping scene is the best view of the Smoky Mountains you can get with both feet on the ground. Make sure to bring your camera, but also don’t forget to bring your coat. Even when it is warm and sunny at the bottom of the mountain, once you get up around the 6,000-foot mark, the weather can change quite quickly. So expect a big shift in temperature when you go.

What Is The Kuwohi Observation Tower Hike Like

The Kuwohi Observation Tower Trail is a relatively simple 1.3-mile round-trip hike with only 337 feet of elevation gain on a paved path. It certainly doesn’t sound like much, but don’t let the stats deceive you. The total height of the trail is 6,643 feet above sea level, and I have always felt the elevation every time I hike. Don’t be surprised if you get winded more easily than usual. On the way up, you will be treated to glorious views of the mountains to your left and an epic, dense forest to the right. You will also cross the Appalachian Trail right before you get to the tower, which I find pretty cool.

The Best Time to Visit The Kuwohi Observation Tower

The road leading up to Kuwohi is typically open from April 1st to November 30th. Close to the opening day and closure day, the park may close the road due to weather conditions, so keep that in mind if you go near those times. When the road is open, you will also want to keep an eye on the weather. Being so high up, this place is prone to being covered in clouds and fog. I have been at the bottom of the mountain, and by the time I made it to the top, you couldn’t see any of the phenomenal views because we were completely covered in fog. It is called the Smokies for a reason, so just keep an eye out for that. 

The Kuwohi Observation Tower is simply a must-see in the Great Smoky Mountains. If you haven’t been, then make sure to add this to your itinerary for your next Smoky Mountain Adventure. Don’t forget to have your AllTrails app handy when you visit. This helpful app will help you stay on course and not accidentally turn on the Appalachian Trail. Trust me, that would make for a really long detour. 

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.