Clingmans Dome

While visiting our family in Pigeon Forge, TN, we decided to go check out Clingmans Dome, which is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It was only about an hour drive from Pigeon Forge and well worth the drive, with beautiful scenic views.

We were able to park near the summit and walk the one mile roundtrip from the Clingmans Dome parking area along a STEEP paved path to the popular observation tower to witness panoramic views from the highest peak in the Smokies.

The hike was worth the incline up, as we were able to gaze across 7 states of beautiful forests and mountains.

The Appalachian Trail and other trails wind through spruce-fir forest, near the top, via Clingmans Dome Road. It was fun to see just a part of this famous trail and imagine the many adventurers that had passed this way.

We then purchased the audio book “A Walk In The Woods” by Bill Bryson, which is his story about hiking the Appalachian Trail. Quite an interesting tale…

If you’re in to hiking, this spectacular place boasts of many great trails and sights to see. We will definitely be going back to explore as many trails as we can.