Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome), Great Smoky Mountains

At 6,643 feet, Kuwohi (formerly "Clingmans Dome") is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Only Mt. Mitchell (6,684 feet) and adjacent Mt. Craig (6,647 feet) are taller. It's about 25 miles from Cherokee, North Carolina, and 75 miles from Asheville. The scenic drive to the top is open April-November each year. There is no admission charge.

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Council passed the resolution to restore Clingmans Dome to its original name of Kuwohi (pronounced koo-WHOA-hee) in January 2022; a decision that was finalized by the U.S. Board of Geographic Names in September 2024. Kuwohi is the Cherokee name for the mountain and translates to "mulberry place." It is a sacred place for the Cherokee people.

A seven-mile approach road from Newfound Gap on U.S. 441 leads to a large parking area with very nice views, along with restrooms and a souvenir shop. For spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond, hike the steep half-mile paved walkway up to the "flying saucer" tower at the top. On clear days, see more than 100 miles. No pets or bikes allowed on the trail to the tower, and it's too steep for wheelchairs. 

Unfortunately, clouds and precipitation are common at Kuwohi, so you are often in the clouds. In fact, the cool, wet conditions create a coniferous rainforest. During the summer, the early mornings are often the clearest.

Temperatures at the summit are usually 10-25 degrees cooler than where you start your drive in Cherokee. Dress in layers and be sure to bring a jacket, even in summer. The road to the summit is closed December-March due to harsh winter weather and 80 inches of average snowfall, as well as other times for bad weather.

Besides the trail to the summit, there are several trails that start on Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road) at the parking area. The Appalachian Trail (AT) crosses Kuwohi, marking the highest point along its journey from Georgia to Maine. The Forney Ridge Trail leads to Andrews Bald, a high-elevation grassy bald.

Directions: From Cherokee, travel US 441 North (Newfound Gap Road) through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Just before Newfound Gap, turn left on the 7-mile Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road) to the large parking area at the end.

Bucket list item! Arise early and drive up to the top of Kuwohi to watch the sunrise. Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for the best colors. You can watch from the parking area or hike to the top to watch. If you hike up, bring a flashlight and a jacket any time of year.

Nearby
See more things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains including other scenic drives and attractions. Also, read about the neighboring Bryson City area with a variety of lodging and restaurant options.