Hike to Andrews Bald

Hike 3.6 miles (5.8 km) roundtrip from the Forney Ridge Trailhead near the Kuwohi parking area.

Smokies Life Photo

Overview

Expect extreme crowding and limited parking—consider a shuttle or alternate hikes listed below

Hike 3.6 miles (5.8 km) roundtrip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park descending through high-elevation, spruce-fir forest to a popular grassy bald known for its flowering azaleas in summer and views of the surrounding mountains.

The trail is wide and graveled and descends many stairs before the first junction. It narrows to a well-trodden dirt path. The return hike to the trailhead involves a relatively strenuous climb, but hikers will enjoy the company of dark-eyed juncos and other high-elevation birds along the way.

Length

3.6 miles (5.8 km) roundtrip

Parking & Trailhead

Please consider a shuttle or park at the Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) parking area (closed in winter). Forney Ridge Trailhead is on the left just before the visitor information center. Don't forget your parking tag.

Nearest Restroom

Pit toilets available seasonally at Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) parking area.

Alternate Hikes

• Gregory Bald: 11.4 miles (18.3 km) roundtrip

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Location

Expect crowds and full parking at Kuwohi to access Forney Ridge Trailhead—consider a shuttle

Take a shuttle to avoid parking stress.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Trail has steep sections, stairs, and narrow parts.