Clingmans Dome 1/2 Mile Hike To The Highest Point In The Smokies

In this video we take our 3 kids on a 1/2 mile hike in November to Clingmans Dome. We share tips and show how difficult this hike is to help you decide if it one you would like to try (spoiler alert, it is totally worth it!)
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⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️
0:00 - Intro
0:58 - Gatlinburg Bypass
1:40 - Bypass Overlook
2:16 - Traveling To Clingmans Dome
4:22 - Secret Tunnel Beneath Clingmans Dome
5:57 - Icy Road
6:30 - Parking At Clingmans Dome
7:08 - Clingmans Dome Bathrooms
7:42 - Entrance & Park Rangers
8:47 - How Far Is The Hike To Clingmans Dome
8:55 - Are Dogs Allowed At Clingmans Dome
9:05 - Hiking To Clingmans Dome
12:01 - Cell Phone Service At Clingmans Dome
12:36 - Clingmans Dome Observation Tower
13:20 - View From The Top Of Clingmans Dome
14:59 - Appalachian Trail
15:37 - Our Thoughts On Clingmans Dome
17:01 - Information Center And Store Tour
21:26 - Our Final Thoughts
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At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the highest point in Tennessee, and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. Only Mt. Mitchell (6,684 feet) and Mt. Craig (6,647), both located in Mt. Mitchell State Park in western North Carolina, rise higher. The observation tower on the summit of Clingmans Dome offers spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond for visitors willing to climb the steep half-mile walk to the tower at the top.
On clear days views expand over a 100 miles. Unfortunately, air pollution often limits viewing distances to under 20 miles.
Clouds, precipitation, and cold temperatures are common at Clingmans Dome. Temperatures at the dome can be 10 -20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than in the surrounding lowlands. In fact, the cool, wet conditions on Clingmans Dome's summit make the spruce-fir forest that grows there a coniferous rainforest. Proper preparation is essential for a good visit. Dress in layers and be sure to bring a jacket, even in summer.
Although Clingmans Dome Observation Tower is open year-round, the road leading to it is closed seasonal typically from early December through late March, and whenever weather conditions require
It's seven miles to the end of Clingmans Dome Road and there are scenic pullouts with endless views of ridges and valleys along the way. The road ends in a large parking area from which a 0.5 mile trail leads to the summit. The trail is paved but steep, and leads to an observation tower on top.
Pets and bicycles are not permitted on the paved trail to the observation tower, or on any other trails in the area. A bike rack is located near the beginning of the paved trail to park bikes while walking to the top. You will need to bring a lock with you to secure your bike.
Although the trail is paved, it is too steep to be wheelchair accessible.
Besides the trail to the summit, there are several trails that start on Clingmans Dome Road and parking area. The Appalachian Trail (AT) crosses Clingmans Dome, marking the highest point along its journey from Georgia to Maine. The Forney Ridge Trail leads to Andrews Bald, a high-elevation grassy bald.
Watch the video, Clingmans Dome - Highpoint of the Great Smoky Mountains, to learn more about the Dome.
Directions: 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.
Mileage to Clingmans Dome:
from Cherokee-25
from Gatlinburg-23
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[@corgimom2]

We are going to Gatlinburg end of April. We've been going to Gatlinburg for years and never have been to Clingman's Dome. We plan on going this time. Hopefully, I can make it up the steep trail. I've had 2 major knee surgeries over the past 3 years and still have some pain. We shall see. Beautiful views.

[@nanetsue]

We walked up to Clingmans Dome during the summer! It was tough but well worth the hike! We also walked on the Appalachian Trail!!!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

We love this hike!

[@danayates924]

My cousin did the app trail start to finish. No reason just wanted too. But I think that is such a big accomplishment.

[@alycew.787]

It really is!

[@michaelgraham827]

Great video you guys.

[@ShowMeAnAdventure]

We’re definitely headed to do this hike when we visit. We heard even in the summer it can be chilly at the top, so we’re bringing jackets. The tunnel is neat! Views at the top look amazing! Can’t wait to see it in person. I think there’s a twin platform to Clingman’s in one of the Florida NPs-Everglades, I believe?

[@andreaandiwilliams9232]

Was there last year in October 2021 and it was really cold. Was able to use my scooter up and we all had a lot of fun!! Thanks for showing this . If I didn't have my scooter I would never get to experience this beautiful area!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Andi!

[@davesmith8925]

I hiked it on Thanksgiving 2020. Took my breath away. Loved the views!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

It’s definitely a steep hike up, but absolutely worth it Dave!

[@bigdave4891]

My wife and I just visited Clingmans Dome a few weeks ago and Pigeon Forge was 84° and when we got up to Clingmans Dome it was 61°, but the windchill felt like mid 50's

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

We hope to go back sometime soon!

[@creighslaven3425]

Awesome video......I hope to make it up there one of these days....Lol

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Creigh! We will definitely be back again Lord willing! Perhaps we will run into you there!

[@lucyhogan8483]

The camera didn't do the steepness justice!!

[@mow4it]

I did this today, my feet still hurt.

[@Daniel_B_23]

The last 1/2 mile up is so steep!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

👍

[@rhodaglover6500]

They need these for the animals to cross

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

👍

[@shano5389]

Hi Again Ryan, we are here for two more days and would love a recommendation for an easy short day hike, could be anywhere in the park, PF or Gatlinburg, 2 miles or less so our little guy doesn’t get too tuckered out. Would this big your #1 recommendation? Thanks again for all the joy you bring into our lives. ♥️ Shan

[@shano5389]

Oh and how far of a drive from Dollywood would it be to the entrance of the trail? Thanks so much!!!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Hey Shan O. This is our #1 recommended hike for little ones. They can also be sworn in as Jr. Park Rangers for the day at this location: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2LNlJJ3jZqhaZY

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Dollywood to Clingman's Dome is about 1 hour away.

[@shano5389]

@@AdventureIsOutThere we did this today!!!! And even though it was overcast, the views were still incredible, it was one of my most favourite things we’ve done this week!! Words cannot express how grateful I am for this amazing recommendation.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@shano5389 Yaaayyy! So glad you enjoyed it and we really appreciate the kind feedback!

[@dianebodjanac710]

Is the drive really steep ? Is a tour to clingman dome worth the money? ?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

I don't think the drive was that bad. If I had a vehicle, I would just drive here myself rather than paying for a tour.

[@Negative13Prod]

I forgot how out of shape i was unit I walked up to the top. Lol