Hike to Clingmans Dome
North Carolina › Clingmans Dome Trailhead
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Activities:
Chillin, Photography, Hiking
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Year Round
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Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
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RT Distance:
1 Miles
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.
Pack List
- Hiking shoes
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Rain jacket
- Backpack
Like some earlier reviews have said, I wouldn't really call this a "hike." The drive to the parking lot is a scenic experience in and of itself. The walk from the parking lot to the observation deck / tower is somewhat steep at some points but paved the entire way. The view from the tower is amazing and well worth it!
3 months ago
Clingman's Dome is awesome! The view at the top is phenomenal and offers a great look over the land. It is a fairly easy hike but is pretty steep all the way up.
10 months ago
This isn't much of a hike, more of a paved walk up to the lookout. The walk is steep and definitely gets your heart rate up, but the views from the top are more than worth it!
11 months ago
A really cool spot that's worth the visit. However I think the drive up was my favorite part. The views and overlooks throughout the parkway on the way up were incredible. Be sure to stop at the overlooks. Also keep in mind it is a long way up the mountain (about an hour).
over 1 year ago
This isn't really hike, but offers some of the most spectacular views of the mountains. It is often crowded and sometimes can be closed because of bad weather so be sure to check before heading up there
over 1 year ago
The best place for night photography in Tennessee easily and maybe in all of the south east, great adventure!
over 1 year ago
Started my short trip to the Smokys with a quick hike out Andrews Bald (TH at Clingmans) and then up to Clingmans Dome. Timed just right for the sunset which was spectacular! It does get chilly after the sun goes down (at least in September)!
almost 2 years ago
