Kuwohi name restored to Clingmans Dome

The US Board of Geographic Names approved an application to return Clingmans Dome to Kuwohi, a name that has always been recognized by the Cherokee people.

September 18, 2024 • 
Grace Powers
A view of kuwohi from the national park path

The effort to return the peak to its original name began in 2022.

Photo via the National Park Service

Yesterday, the US Board of Geographic Names approved a proposal from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) to restore the name of the tallest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Kuwohi, the Cherokee name for the mountain.

The change is the result of a years-long effort from EBCI members Lavita Hill and Mary Crowe and a proposal from EBCI Principal Chief Michell Hicks submitted in January.

The mountain has always been known as Kuwohi (ᎫᏬᎯ in Cherokee syllabary) to the Cherokee People; the name translates to “mulberry place.” After a survey in 1859, geographer Arnold Guyot renamed the mountain after Confederate general Thomas Clingman — but now, the Kuwohi name is returned.

New signage and online materials reflecting the change are in progress. Learn more about the name restoration.

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