Getting high above the surrounding terrain to admire panoramic mountain views is never an issue in western North Carolina where mountain peaks are as much of a destination as are the truly charming tiny towns nestled down in the valleys between those peaks. One such place visitors and locals flock to on the regular is known as Clingman’s Dome, which sits on the North Carolina/Tennessee border right in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.
For those who've made the thrilling drive up to Clingman's Dome and then walked the last half a mile up to the circular observation tower, the experience leaves a lasting impression after witnessing 360-degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Clingman's Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is a must when touring the park. But there's another mountain peak accessible from Clingman's that should be on the agenda as well: Andrews Bald.
At an elevation of 5,920 feet, Andrews Bald is the highest bald within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its dual peaks are accessed by way of a 1.8-mile trail (one way) that begins at the Clingman's Dome parking lot.
Rated as moderate, the trail has an overall elevation gain of 875 feet. The pair of balds at Andrews Bald are found along Forney Ridge just south of Clingman's Dome and the hike traverses some absolutely beautiful forested terrain en route to the balds.
Scenery along this beautiful trail is especially green since moss is overly abundant, as is shady cover from the trees that tower overhead as you travel. At the onset, you'll travel mostly downhill for about the first mile, but as easy as it is, just know those stone stairs will need to be ascended on the way back to your car, so pace yourself accordingly.
Arriving at the bald will mean changing your vertical direction and making an uphill climb. Andrews Bald is not located precisely on the mountain peak. You'll want to pass over the peak and start down the other side to find the bald and those amazing Smoky Mountain views we mentioned.
Some have speculated that Andrews Bald was named for an early settler, Andres Thompson, who liked to hunt up here on the bald. Years ago, there was a cabin on the lower end of this open spot on top of the mountain.
It's very easy to see why someone would want to build a home all the way up here, in spite of the harsh conditions during the winter months. These Smoky Mountain views are enough to bring you to your knees!
