Clingmans Dome Smoky Mountains is a must visit during your vacation trip. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the highest point in Tennessee, and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi.
Hiking Clingmans Dome Smoky Mountains
Hiking the Highest Point in the Smoky Mountains is on many a bucket list, for good reason too. The views are second to none as you witness during the trip and as you hit your final destination. The trail to the reach the park’s highest point is paved and only measures one-half mile.
However, the trail can be a test because of its steep incline. Its a steady 332 gain as you hike to the top of the dome. Benches are spread along the path if yo need to rest and catch your breath.
The trail to Clingmans Dome crosses with other trails, including the Appalachian Trail. In addition to the Forney Creek Trail and the Forney Ridge Trail. By hiking these trails you can access the Clingmans Dome trail without having to travel the Dome Road. Upon reaching the summit you will enjoy unmatched 360 degree views of the Smokies. The views from the tower make the hike a must and very rewarding.
Photography Clingmans Dome Smoky Mountains
Photographers and amateurs alike love the scenery and photographs they are rewarded with. Whether you are a long time pro or just shooting with your I phone, a camera is a must bring. 360 degree mountain views throughout the Smokies. Wildlife, nature family and friends with a perfect backdrop. Open year round and well worth the visit every-time you come to the Smokies. Take some great pictures and make sure to share with us at the Highland Manor Inn Facebook Page.
How Do I get To Clingmans Dome
Traveling the Smoky Mountains National Park is quite easy once you have been through a couple of times. If its your first trip, the visitor centers are quite helpful indeed. Getting to Clingmans Dome in the Smoky Mountains is easy and enjoyable with lots of beautiful sights to take in along the way. We’ve listed directions below to help you along the way:
Directions: Turn off Newfound Gap Road 0.1 mile south of Newfound Gap follow the 7-mile-long Clingmans Dome Road to the large parking area at the end.
How Clingmans Dome Got Its Name
Most of the mountains in the national park are named after those who discovered them.
A geographer named Arnold Guyot took measurements of the mountains. Knowing Thomas Clingman believed that the mountain was higher than any other in the area, he fittingly named them after him.
Sights To Clingmans Dome
On your way to Clingmans Dome, you will pass some places you will want to see. Make sure to stop and enjoy the journey.
Check out the great views form Indian Gap. A historic site where two toll roads met before the creation of Newfound Gap Road. The toll roads were the Indian route through the area. Make sure to look for the indentations where wagons were once pulled.
Weeping Wall – The rock formation where there is a bit of moisture and water condensation. The rock walls along the road will show the dripping water. Called the ‘weeping walls.’ In the winter, these walls are a site to see as freeze in icy conditions, forming naturally-occurring ice sculptures.
Spruce-Fir Nature Trail – A very nice hike in the nature trail is a great way to finish the trip. A self guided brochure will guide you on this hike. Visitors can go into the Smokies by this quick trail and enjoy the cool, fir-scented mountain air. There is nothing like it anywhere.
Clingmans Dome is a must visit on your trip to the Smoky Mountains. Hiking, taking in the scenery or just exploring the Mountainside. The experience is a must and a one that you will cherish forever. make sure to plan for the weather and bring your water bottle. If you are looking for a great hotel that feels like home, The Highland Manor Inn has a room for you. Located in Towsend Tennessee, and close to Cades Cove and Smokies entrance. It is a perfect hotel for the whole family vacation. Thank You Debra Bouley Groves for the wonderful photo.