I hiked this trail on Saturday, August 12th, 2023 with my girlfriend.

This short hike is located deep in rural Swain County, about 20 minutes either way down a gravel road. When I visited, however, the road was well-maintained. There is a small parking area called Tellico Plains Parking with room for about 8-12 vehicles. Once you park there, turn north and begin the ascent.

After a little over a mile of steep incline and rocky trails, the fire tower rises in the distance.

The tower gives good views to the north, towards Lake Fontana. The other directions still offer visibility, but are a bit more obscured by trees.

For a map of the trail, click here