Kuwohi — Attraction in Bryson City

Absolutely stunning views. Clingman's Dome at 6644 feet is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  The drive from Gatlinburg took about an hour (factoring in traffic and stops at multiple overlooks). There was an enormous parking lot with a payment kiosk (there is a parking fee), toilets, and a gift shop at the visitor's center with a really friendly ranger. We learned from him that Clingman's Dome is always at least 20 degrees cooler than the rest of the park, and wind chills factor in. Take layers, even if it's 95 degrees in Gatlinburg!

The paved path to the observation dome was roughly . 5 to .75 miles each way (depending on how far out you parked) at a 13% gradient with a total elevation gain of 335 feet.  There were benches along the way, and we saw children and adults of all ages making the climb. (Bring snacks and water, and save some energy for the walk back down.)  The AT crosses the path shortly before the spiral ramp to the Dome itself. The observation Dome is covered with a roof and surrounded by railings to give you a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains.  Several signs around the Dome provide perspective by illustrating which peaks you're looking at N, S, E, and W, as well as their respective elevations.  There's no guarantee that you'll have a clear view, since fog is rampant in the Smokies, but if it's a clear day, the scene is...

Kuwohi (formerly known as Clingmans Dome) is a crowning jewel of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering an unparalleled experience for visitors. As the highest peak in the park and Tennessee, and the third-highest summit east of the Mississippi, the panoramic views from its observation tower are truly breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for over 100 miles into seven different states, making the steep, paved half-mile hike to the summit absolutely worth the effort. Beyond the stunning vistas, Kuwohi holds deep cultural significance for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, for whom it is a sacred "mulberry place" and has been known by this name for centuries. The recent restoration of the traditional name, Kuwohi, reflects a meaningful recognition of this heritage. While the road to the summit is typically closed in winter, the observation tower remains open, and the road becomes a popular spot for cross-country skiing. Regardless of the season, a visit to Kuwohi promises a powerful connection with nature and an unforgettable perspective on the majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Just remember to dress in layers – temperatures can be significantly cooler...

I went to Clingmans Dome with my two son-in-laws while we were in Gatlinburg, TN.

At 6,643 feet, it is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the highest point in Tennessee, and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. Only Mt. Mitchell (6,684 feet) and Mt. Craig (6,647 feet), both located in Mt. Mitchell State Park in western North Carolina, rises higher.

The observation tower on the summit of Clingmans Dome offers spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond if you're willing to make the steep half-mile walk to the tower at the top. On clear days one can see for over 100 miles.

Clouds, precipitation, and cold temperatures are common at Clingmans Dome. Temperatures at the dome can be 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than in the surrounding lowlands. In fact, the cool, wet conditions on the summit make the spruce-fir forest that grows there a coniferous rainforest. So, dress in layers and be sure to bring a jacket, even in summer.

We were there in April and it was cloudy and very cool. But once I was at the top I took my jacket off for awhile because of the walk up which...