Andrews Bald via Forney Ridge Trail
A high-elevation Forney Ridge hike from Kuwohi to a grassy bald with seasonal wildflowers, berry patches and broad mountain views.
Route overview
From the Forney Ridge trailhead, descend through spruce-fir and mixed high-elevation forest for 1.8 miles to Andrews Bald. The destination is an open heath-and-grass landscape historically maintained by grazing and ecological processes, with views that contrast sharply with the enclosed forest approach. Because the outward leg trends downward, hikers must retain energy for the return climb to Kuwohi.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Distance
- 5.8 km / 3.6 mi return
- Typical duration
- 2–3 hours estimated
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- not officially published in the cited route source; return involves meaningful climbing
- Best season
- late spring through autumn while Kuwohi Road is open and trail conditions are suitable
- Trail type
- out-and-back
Safety context
Kuwohi access is seasonal and parking is often saturated. High-elevation weather can be cold, wet or foggy when valleys are warm and clear. Roots and rock become slippery after rain, while ice may linger in shoulder seasons. Wildlife should never be approached and berries should not be treated as a guaranteed food source. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Kuwohi access is seasonal and parking is often saturated. High-elevation weather can be cold, wet or foggy when valleys are warm and clear. Roots and rock become slippery after rain, while ice may linger in shoulder seasons. Wildlife should never be approached and berries should not be treated as a guaranteed food source.
Highlights
`great-smoky-mountains`, `north-carolina`, `bald`, `high-elevation`, `wildflowers`, `mountain-views`, `moderate-hike`, `forney-ridge
Why find a buddy
Good for partners practising turnaround timing and reverse-profile awareness: the return is harder than the outward leg. Match hikers by fitness and comfort with cool, wet high-country conditions.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.