The Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower is an attraction that provides visitors with glimpses of the many landscapes and rolling hills of the Great Smoky Mountains, wrapped around the town of Cosby, Tennessee. That very same tower was recently renovated and is now offering visitors even more.
A Journey to the Historic Tower
The Civilian Conservation Corps built the Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower while it served as one of the many fire lookout towers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This tower is located in the northern portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, along with many other attractions, and sits near the town of Cosby, Tennessee.
In the 1990s, local hikers Gary Wade and Tom Trotter led a restoration project that revived the tower, making it a great stop for those who enjoy hikes and the outdoors. The tower is a destination for those who take on the Low Gap Trail. The trail offers a great challenge and even greater rewards for those who want to see the Smoky Mountains from a special viewpoint.
The Trail to Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower
The hike to Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower is the trail for serious hikers. The journey is about 10 miles round trip, and it promises to be beautiful and provide the value of a challenge. The trail starts on the southeast side of the Cosby Campground. The Cosby Campground is a beautiful area where you can enjoy the scenery. Just remember that this campground is only open from the middle of April to the end of October. So, even winter is out of the question for this campground, and when it’s closed, hikers will have to park elsewhere.
Putting the experience on the site is an experience in and of itself. The Low Gap Trail climbs a total of 3,149 feet. You will need hiking poles, as the slope can be steep, and the falls can be rugged. The reward is worth the risk, though: the ridge line of the Smokies is a view you will not forget. You will also be joined by the Appalachian Trail for just about a final half-mile stretch to the tower.
After the Cammerer tower is the view. You will first see the steep slopes of the Pigeon River Gorge. The restoration of the Smokies will be in every direction, but look hillward on the outside and see a boundless view of the slopes outside of the gorge. The Keep offers a freshly restored patio and keeps the entrance to head inside.
If you want to admire the Smoky Mountains, the tower is a good place to visit. In the fall, the mountains transform into various shades of red, yellow, and orange. This allows great photo opportunities to capture the essence of the fall season. It’s also recommended to visit the tower in the morning to watch the sunrise. It’s a great place to watch the sunrise!
Hiking Preparation and Tips
It will take a long time to get to the lookout tower, but there are many great views along the way! To enjoy the views, be sure to take great breaks. Because the trail can be steep and challenging, most importantly, you must bring lots of water and good hiking shoes. Also, if you’re someone who likes hiking poles, you should bring those too!
When hiking in autumn, remember to check the current weather forecast and prepare for cooler temperatures. Because most hikes take several hours and the daylight will be disappearing quickly, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to return. If you think you will be hiking when it is dark, it would be a good idea to bring a headlamp or flashlight. After a long day of hiking, be sure to remember the difficult uphill portion that will be waiting for you on the return trip.
More Information on Cosby and the Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower
Although Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower is a popular destination, it is fairly remote and requires some planning to access. Black Cab in Cosby is a good option for arranging your transportation. If you are renting a car, the closest major airports are McGhee Tyson (57 miles) and Asheville Regional (77 miles). For those flying in from farther away, the closest major airport is Charlotte Douglas International, about 182 miles from Cosby.
Parking at the Cosby Campground, when open, is ideally located for access to the Low Gap Trailhead. In winter, parking is located near the campground. Once you arrive in Cosby, Tennessee, renting a car is suggested for optimal access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
An Underrated Treasure in the Great Smoky Mountains
The combination of history, accomplishment, and natural wonder makes the Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower hike one of the underrated treasures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike showcases the Smokies at their best. Every season is special, but summer and fall stand out when visitors can enjoy the views from a restored fire lookout tower, one of the gems of the Smoky Mountains.
If you’re looking for the most challenging hikes in the most beautiful National Parks, the Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower hike in Cosby, Tennessee is a must. The Smoky Mountains are waiting for you on the other side, and the reward is one of the best views.
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