Kuwohi

Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, standing at 6,643 feet. It’s also the highest point in the state of Tennessee, and the third highest peak east of the Mississippi. The Kuwohi Observation Tower is a popular spot for visitors to catch a Smoky Mountain sunrise or sunset. It’s on the summit of Kuwohi and offers 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and beyond. On clear days, the views stretch for more than 100 miles. However, fog and air pollution typically limit the views to under 20 miles.

When is Kuwohi Open?

The Kuwohi Observation Tower is open year-round. However, the road leading to it closes seasonally from early December through late March.

Directions to Kuwohi

To get to Kuwohi, turn off Newfound Gap Road 0.1 mile south of Newfound Gap. Then, follow Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road) to the large parking lot at the end. It’s 7 miles to the end of Kuwohi Road. Along the drive, there are scenic pull-offs where you can stop and admire the gorgeous views. The road ends at a large parking area. From the parking area, you’ll hike a paved, but steep, half-mile trail to the top of the observation tower.

Although Kuwohi Road is closed in the winter, you can still hike to the observation tower. However, keep in mind that the hike along the road is 7 miles one way. If you’re a fan of cross-country skiing, this sport is popular along Kuwohi Road in the winter.

Kuwohi Weather

Because of its high elevation, temperatures are often about 10 to 20 degrees colder on Kuwohi than other parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll want to be sure to bring extra layers and rain gear when you visit.

Kuwohi Name Restored to the Highest Point in the National Park

As of September 2024, the name of the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has officially changed from Clingmans Dome to Kuwohi (pronounced koo-WHOA-hee). This is the Cherokee name for the mountain, which translates to “mulberry place.” In Cherokee syllabary, Kuwohi is ᎫᏬᎯ. This change was proposed in January of 2024 by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Principal Chief Michell Hicks, following an effort started by ECBI citizens Lavita Hill and Mary Crowe back in 2022. Kuwohi is a sacred place for the Cherokee people, and it is the highest point within the traditional Cherokee homeland. Learn more about the name change from Clingmans Dome back to Kuwohi.

“The Great Smoky National Park team was proud to support this effort to officially restore the mountain and to recognize its importance to the Cherokee People. The Cherokee People have had strong connections to Kuwohi and the surrounding area, long before the land became a national park. The National Park Service looks forward to continuing to work with the Cherokee People to share their story and preserve this landscape together.”

- Cassius Cash, Superintendent of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park