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Andrews Bald via Forney Ridge Trail

Andrews Bald via Forney Ridge Trail(edit)

based on 69 tracks & routes | |

EASY

#21 hike out of 614 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park |

EASY

1.8 mi

Distance

59 min

Time

584 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is an easy out-and-back trail to Andrews Bald in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The popular, heavily-traveled trail leads through spruce forests and mixed hardwoods to an open meadow with good views toward the south and east. The trail is especially noteworthy in June, when flame azalea are in bloom with their bright orange blossoms.

Note that the round trip hike is actually a bit over 4 miles and 800 ft of elevation gain.

Getting Started

From Gatlinburg, TN or Cherokee, NC follow US 441 to the well marked side road to Clingmans Dome. Follow Clingmans Dome Road to its end at a large parking area and visitor center. This is the same parking lot as for the Clingmans Dome summit access. The trail leaves through a passage in the stone wall between the rest rooms and gift shop. Follow this access trail to the signed intersection with the Forney Ridge Trail and turn left (south).

NOTE: Clingmans Dome Road is CLOSED from December 1 to March 31.

Taking Children

The hike is good for older children. The footing is rocky in spots which could pose a problem for smaller kids.

Sights to See

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

awaterm16 1 year, 1 month ago

Did this hike after going to Clingmans Dome. The first .5-.6 miles was all downhill and comprised of primitive wood framed and stone stairs. Enjoyed the views from Andrew’s Bald. I would classify this hike as a short Moderate

★ ★ ★ ★

Jerry Ellsworth 2 years ago

Views at the bald in October at peak fall colors were fantastic! Despite the crowds, this is a lovely hike. Start early before the traffic gets too bad. I was barely able to get out due to the mile-long line of cars waiting to enter, in the early afternoon as I was leaving.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Greg 3 years ago

Saturday trip to Clingman;s Dome. Parking was scarce as usual on a Saturday. Weather was bright and sunny. Trail was about 90 percent dry, several areas of wet and ice. Andrews Bald was absolutely gorgeous on this sunny day. The trip is only about 3.5 miles R/T but should be considered difficult considering the rocks and elevation gain coming back up. Well worth the time and effort.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

dtn39526 4 years, 9 months ago

Parked at dome for a down and back up hike with the wife and our 10 month old along for the ride in a baby-carrier. Chilly at the high elevation, warmed up as we descended. Absolutely spectacular views on the bald. Plenty of space for a nice picnic lunch and photo ops - plenty of other hikers doing the same but plenty of space for privacy. Hiking back up was a bit of a chore but well worth it. Parking at Clingnan’s Dome like everywhere else in the park is a bit of a nightmare but worth the wait if you can stand it

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

David McVicker 5 years, 5 months ago

Great hike for the family. Trail is in good condition and easy to navigate. Hiked on Fathers Day 2019 - flame azaleas on the bald are still in bloom.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

buy2020 1 year, 5 months ago

★ ★

grimmee 1 year, 9 months ago

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Public Tracks

Jason G. 8 years, 4 months ago

Andrews Bald Trail Great Smoky Mtns,Clingmans Dome,NC

ONEWAY Trail(Out & Back) 3.6 Miles Total(Moderate 5.3) Area-Clingmans Dome Views-Outstanding Highest Elevation-6310ft. Beautiful Views Trail has steps and rocks to hike over and some elevation on the way back.