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Clingmans Dome

Bryson City, North Carolina

4.4/5
based on 19 reviews

Details

Distance

1.23 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

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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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Clingmans Dome Reviews

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).

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

The best place for night photography in Tennessee easily and maybe in all of the south east, great adventure!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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