Duration
1-2 hours (including 45-minute hike and time at observation tower)
Price
$5 daily parking tag (hike is free)
Best For
Families with older kids who can handle steep climbs • Photographers seeking panoramic mountain views • First-time Smokies visitors wanting the classic experience
Pro Tip
Arrive by 8:30 AM to snag parking and beat the crowds, or come an hour before sunset for dramatic lighting and fewer people - just bring a headlamp for the walk down.
About Kuwohi Trailhead
Kuwohi Trailhead offers access to Tennessee's highest point, where the views from the summit remain consistently impressive visit after visit. The half-mile paved trail appears deceptively manageable, but hikers encounter a challenging 337-foot elevation gain that proves more demanding than expected.
Parking becomes extremely difficult after 10 AM, with vehicles often circling for 30 minutes or more waiting for available spots. This situation intensifies significantly during fall foliage season when visitor numbers peak.
The observation tower provides spectacular 360-degree panoramic views extending for miles on clear days. Even typically unimpressed teenagers find themselves acknowledging the remarkable scenery from this elevated vantage point.
Layered clothing proves essential since temperatures run 10-20 degrees cooler than nearby Bryson City, and strong winds persist even during summer months. Many visitors discover this temperature difference unexpectedly on their initial trip.
Strategically placed benches appear every few hundred feet along the trail, providing welcome rest opportunities. Taking breaks shouldn't cause embarrassment – even well-conditioned hikers frequently pause to catch their breath on this steep ascent.
The hike costs nothing beyond the required $5 daily parking tag, though road closures occur from December through March. Winter visitors should verify accessibility before making the drive to the trailhead.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Observation Tower Summit
The concrete spiral ramp tower sits at 6,643 feet elevation, giving you 360-degree views across seven states on clear days. It's the highest point in Tennessee and one of the most iconic spots in the Smokies.
Steep Paved Trail
Don't let the half-mile distance fool you - this trail gains 337 feet in elevation and will get your heart pumping. Benches along the way provide perfect rest stops and photo opportunities.
Spruce-Fir Forest
The high elevation creates a unique ecosystem more similar to Canada than Tennessee. You'll walk through rare spruce and fir trees that only exist at these elevations in the South.
Kuwohi Visitor Center
Located along the access road, this small center has clean restrooms, a bookstore, and helpful rangers. It's your last chance for facilities before the trailhead parking area.
Sunrise and Stargazing
The tower is accessible 24/7 when the road is open, making it a prime spot for sunrise hikes and night sky photography. The lack of light pollution creates incredible star views.
Fall Color Views
Late September through early October transforms the surrounding mountains into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows visible for miles. It's arguably the best fall color viewing spot in the Smokies.
Know Before You Go
- Arrive by 9 AM to avoid parking chaos - the lot fills completely during peak season
- Bring layers and wind protection - it's 10-20 degrees cooler than surrounding towns
- Purchase your $5 daily parking tag online or at visitor centers before arriving
- Check road conditions - Kuwohi Road closes December through March for snow
- Trail is paved but very steep - not suitable for wheelchairs despite the pavement
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsKuwohi Trailhead receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Bryson City, it's a solid choice for the area.
Kuwohi Trailhead Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Kuwohi Trailhead
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Kuwohi Trailhead?
The observation tower is open year-round, but the access road typically closes from early December through late March due to snow. The Kuwohi Visitor Center operates 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM from April through November.
How much does Kuwohi Trailhead cost?
The hike is free, but you need a Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag: $5 daily, $15 weekly, or $40 annual. There's no entrance fee to the park itself.
Do I need reservations for Kuwohi Trailhead?
No reservations needed. It's first-come, first-served for parking, which is why arriving early is crucial during peak season.
How long should I spend at Kuwohi Trailhead?
Plan 1-2 hours total including the 1-mile round-trip hike (about 45 minutes) plus time enjoying the views and exploring the observation tower.
Is Kuwohi Trailhead good for kids?
Yes for kids 8 and up who can handle a steep climb. The paved trail and observation tower are exciting for children, but bring snacks and water since the elevation gain is challenging.
Is there parking at Kuwohi Trailhead?
There's a large paved parking lot at the trailhead, but it fills completely during peak times (10 AM - 3 PM in summer and fall). Arrive early or expect to wait for spaces.
Is the trail wheelchair accessible?
No, despite being paved, the trail is too steep to be considered wheelchair accessible. The 337-foot elevation gain over half a mile creates a challenging grade.
Can I bring my dog to Kuwohi?
No, dogs are not allowed on this trail per Great Smoky Mountains National Park regulations for this area.
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We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
Kuwohi Trailhead receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Bryson City, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Jan 4, 2026
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