Bryson City, North Carolina
Hike to Clingmans Dome
1 Miles Total - Out-and-Back Trail
Originally added by Spenser Reid
Hike to the top of the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond.
The drive to Clingmans Dome is miles of scenic overlooks that provide endless views of ridges and valleys. Clingmans Dome Road comes to a parking lot from which you follow a .5 mile paved trail to the summit.
There are also several trails that start on Clingmans Dome Road. Most notably The Appalachian Trail, which crosses Clingmans Dome, making it the highest point on the whole trail.
Turn off Newfound Gap Road 0.1 mile south of Newfound Gap and follow the 7-mile-long Clingmans Dome Road to the large parking area at the end.
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Reviews
Overall rating:
Right of passage
For anyone going to GSMNP, this is the best “summit” experience you will have. A nice hike that gets your blood flowing followed by a unreal view from the top.
5.0
Very Nice Scene
Views are breath-taking,,,and so is the hike up to it sometimes..but not too bad. My only suggestion is some port-a- potties along the way because I did see some going in the woods to....well, you know!
4.0
Overcrowded, but beautiful views of the mountains
Clingmans Dome boasts some of the best views of the Smoky Mountains, however, this is also an extremely crowded and popular trail. I would highly recommend you begin in the early morning and catch the sunrise or the early evening and catch the sunset. There will also be less people on the trail at these times, allowing for easier parking and a more enjoyable experience at the top. This trail is wheelchair and stroller friendly, well-paved and well-maintained, but very steep in some parts. Be sure to pack water and your camera and have fun!
3.0
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