Clingmans Dome Trail

Distance: 0.5 mile steep climb to observation tower

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Moderate due to the elevation

Starting Point: Clingmans Dome parking lot, via the access road off of Newfound Gap Road

Enter your starting address:

TRAIL NOTES

Featured
Clingmans Dome

Once at the parking lot, you have a steep, half-mile climb on a paved trail to a spiral ramp and observation tower with panoramic views. The signs explain the views from every direction which, on a clear day, can extend 100 miles. Bring layers, as the temperature here can be 10-20 degrees (F) colder than the lower areas.

Clingmans Dome

The views extend beyond the observation tower. Even the parking lot offers scenic views of the park, as shown above. Finally, do not miss the opportunity to tread the Appalachian Trail, which crosses Clingmans Dome and marks the highest point along its journey from Georgia to Maine.

CURRENT WEATHER

A note on weather from the park service: “Temperatures can vary 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit from mountain base to top, and clear skies lower down do not guarantee equally pleasant weather at higher elevations. Some prior planning and weather-wise clothing will help ensure an enjoyable visit during any season.” Learn more about weather conditions here.

BRYSON CITY NC WEATHER

To save this hike and our other recommended hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit our curated list on AllTrails, where you can learn about other trails in the park and create your own lists to reference through their mobile app.