Explore Kuwohi: The Sacred Summit of the Cherokee Homeland in the Great Smoky Mountains
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to comfortably enjoy walking and light hiking at elevation throughout the day.
Overview
Discover Kuwohi, the highest peak in the Cherokee homeland and a cultural treasure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Join a guided day trip that blends breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and Cherokee heritage into an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Kuwohi located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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About This Adventure
Embark on a memorable journey to Kuwohi, the sacred highest point in the Cherokee homeland, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. Experience breathtaking views, visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, and enjoy the chance to see elk in their natural habitat before savoring lunch in Cherokee. A unique adventure awaits!
Kuwohi is a sacred place for the Cherokee people and is the highest point within the traditional Cherokee homeland. Kuwohi is one of the most popular sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with more than 650,000 visitors per year. It is the tallest point in Tennessee and the third-highest summit east of the Mississippi River. Experience this sacred site, Oconaluftee visitors center, and possibly see Elk roaming in the fields before we stop for lunch in Cherokee.
Pick up location #1 is the Black Mountain Visitor Center 8am
Pick up location #2 is the Asheville Visitor Center 8:30am
Stop # 3 Oconaluftee Visitor Center (Restroom break and gift shop)
Stop #4 Kuwohi mountain
Stop #5 Lunch in the town of Cherokee
Stop #6 Drop off at Asheville Visitor Center
Stop #7 Drop off at Black Mountain Visitor Center
What to bring
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Medications (including motion sickness if needed)
- Wear comfortable clothing (in spring and fall you may also want to bring a light jacket)
- Comfortable non-slip shoes
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Walking stick (folding kind only due to space limitations on the van)
- Small backpack that will fit under the seat
- Spending money for lunch and visitor centers
- Packed lunch if you do not want to eat at a restaurant (some places have picnic tables)
- Earbuds if you wish to watch videos or listen to music on your phone
- Deodorant
What not to bring
- Do not bring any large items that will not fit safely under your seat or in your lap.
- Coolers
- Chairs
- Duffle bag
Disclaimer
For the safety of our staff and passengers:
- Alcohol, tobacco products, smoking, and vaping are not allowed on our van at any time.
- Weapons are not allowed, including but not limited to Firearms and knives on our van at any time.
Adventure Tips
Prepare for variable weather
Layer your clothing as temperatures can change quickly at high elevations.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for spotting elk in the fields surrounding Kuwohi.
Wear sturdy footwear
Comfortable, non-slip shoes are crucial for walking around the visitor centers and light trails.
Carry water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized throughout the 7-hour trip, especially during outdoor stops.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Peregrine falcons occasionally overhead
History
Kuwohi has long been a sacred summit for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, symbolizing their cultural roots and regional history.
Conservation
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park carefully manages visitor impact with education and controlled group sizes to protect this sensitive region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Ideal for wildlife observation, particularly elk sightings near Kuwohi.
Comfortable non-slip hiking shoes
Essential for walking on trails and uneven surfaces safely.
Layered clothing
Spring weather can be cool and variable; layers keep you comfortable.
spring specific
Bug spray
Useful in summer months to deter insects during outdoor stops.
summer specific