The Summer month can be hot even in East Tennessee. Here are some cool hiking trails, literally Cool! The higher in elevation you go the cooler the temperature. Sometimes the temperature can be 20 degrees cooler.
Consider one of these Smoky Mountain Trails if you are looking to cool down.
Kuwohi Observation Tower
This is a short easy trail. It takes you up to the observation tower that was built in 1959. Once to the tower you can see up to 100 miles, on a clear day. The is good parking there and the path is paved and is only a 1 mile trek up to the tower. It is a little steep but well worth the effort. The elevation there is 6,643 feet.
Arrive early to beat the crowds and wear study foot wear. If you get there early, the temperatures are milder so you might bring a wind breaker.
The Noland Divide Trail to the Lonesome Pine Overlook
Located on the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains is a strenuous 6.7 miles round trip. The route will gain 2,300 feet in elevation. The observation area is called the Lonesome Pine Overlook. There you can enjoy the view, rest a little and a great place to enjoy any snacks you may have brought with yourself. There are plenty of places for photos opportunities so make sure your phone is fully charged. Before you set out on the hike be sure to research The Noland Divide Trail to the Lonesome Pine and plan your hike. Be prepared and let someone know where you are going.
Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald
Once again research and plan before venturing out on this hike. This trial begins at the end of Kuwohi Rd. This is a 3.6 miles roundtrip hike and rises in about 800 feet of elevation. Hikers will encounter rocky and even muddy areas during the hike. But once you reach Andrews Bald there is a grassy meadow named after one of the settlers who lived in the area in the 1840’s. If you are there during the blooming season you will likely see many brightly colored native Appalachian azaleas. The beautiful blooms of pink, orange and red will be tempting to pick, but don’t. Leave them there for others to enjoy.
