Last updated: July 16, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike to Andrews Bald
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
Forney Ridge Trailhead at Clingmans Dome parking area (closed in winter); trailhead is on the left just before the Clingmans Dome store
Nearest Restroom
Pit toilets in Clingmans Dome parking area (available seasonally)
Alternate Hikes
- Hike to Gregory Bald: 11.4 miles (18.3 km) roundtrip
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.
A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.