Waterfall Hero Hikes: GSMNP Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome, at 6,643 feet above sea level, is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest point in North Carolina as it lies along the state line. A spur road, closed in the winter, leads from Newfound Gap to the base of the peak and a half-mile paved trail leads to an observation tower at the summit. A number of trails are accessible from Clingmans Dome, including the Appalachian Trail and the western trailhead for the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.

Directions:

From Cherokee, NC, head north on US-441 (Newfound Gap Road) for 19 miles to Newfound Gap. If coming from Gatlinburg, TN, go south on US-441 for 17 miles. At Newfound Gap, turn onto Clingmans Dome Road and drive 7 miles to the large parking area at the end.

Map:

Trails:

Appalachian Trail:

The Appalachian Trail cuts through the middle of the park and runs across the summit of Clingmans Dome. This is the highest point on the entire trail. North of Clingmans Dome, the trail runs concurrently with the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.

Mountains-to-Sea Trail:

The western trailhead of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail is at the summit of Clingmans Dome. The trail piggbacks on the Appalachian Trail for about 3.5 miles then follow Fork Ridge Trail down the mountain.

Points of Interest:

Andrews Bald:

Andrews Bald is one of two grassy balds in the Great Smoky Mountains. Located on Forney Ridge south of Clingmans Dome, it provides great views over Cherokee and Fontana Lake.