By:
Submission
Wow, the views!!!
The hike from Tellico Gap is 1.4 miles through a beautiful forest, and almost all uphill, but with switchbacks. Your hear twill still pump, but it's not difficult.
We had the tower to ourselves for about 20 minutes before another group showed up.
The tower platform is great, but the stairs are STEEP. But worth it!
I look forward to coming back.
Absolutely worth the hike to check this out. It's not too strenuous of a hike back to it at about 2 miles. The trail is easy to follow but there are a lot of exposed roots on so you do have to watch your steps. It doesn't get too steep until you're just about there and even then it's pretty manageable. The views were far better than clingman's dome in my opinion and far less crowded (and no traffic jams).
They're truly are no words to describe the view. When you get to the top. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone! Parking can be somewhat limited at the Tellico Gap trail head. Just follow the Appalachian trail north and you will come right to the tower. There is also a side trail that you can take, it is much steeper though.
Beautiful but steep hike up the old access path. For about a 1/3 of a mile. Sturdy old fire tower at the top. In good shape. Can be camped at the top of platform. Not busy. Road there is winding and 1 car wide only. Honk your horns in blind turns. Some parking at trailhead.
Views for miles from the tower .
