Clingmans Dome Hike
Overview
On this hike a knowledgeable guide will discuss the plant and animal life of the Great Smoky Mountains as well as the history of the people that called this area home. We'll hike the highest section of the Appalachian Trail through dense spruce-fir forest and climb the Clingmans Dome observation tower at 6, 643 feet for a 360 degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Inclusions
- Bottled water
- Snacks
What to expect
Itinerary
An excellent opportunity to experience on of the true gems of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Clingman's Dome is the highest point in the Smokies with 360 degree views of the surrounding southern Appalachians. The route this hike takes is off the beaten path so the hiker is able to get away from the masses but still enjoy the same views from the top of a manmade structure. This hike can be steep in some sections but the reward is worth the extra effort. SMG staff will share with you the diversity on a small and large scale and what makes up the high elevations of the Smokies. Also, you will learn about invasive species that have attacked the upper reaches of the park and the outlook of that for the future. As we approach the highest summit in Tennessee, we will be on the scenic Appalachian trail and spend ample time exploring vistas hearing stories.
Please note that you will be following the guide from the meeting location to the trailhead. You will need a parking pass for Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Details about the pass can be found here
Stop At:
• 7 miles off US-441 on the Clingmans Dome Road About 19.6 Miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
An excellent opportunity to experience on of the true gems of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Clingman's Dome is the highest point in the Smokies with 360 degree views of the surrounding southern Appalachians. The route this hike takes is off the beaten path so the hiker is able to get away from the masses but still enjoy the same views from the top of a manmade structure. This hike can be steep in some sections but the reward is worth the extra effort. SMG staff will share with you the diversity on a small and large scale and what makes up the high elevations of the Smokies. Also, you will learn about invasive species that have attacked the upper reaches of the park and the outlook of that for the future. As we approach the highest summit in Tennessee, we will be on the scenic Appalachian trail and spend ample time exploring vistas hearing stories.
Please note that you will be following the guide from the meeting location to the trailhead. You will need a parking pass for Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Details about the pass can be found here
Stop At:
• 7 miles off US-441 on the Clingmans Dome Road About 19.6 Miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
Additional information
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- GSMNP Parking Pass Required- A parking pass from GSMNP is required for this activity. Details about the parking pass including online purchases can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Ticket delivery
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
G6222DIlindab
June 2022
I’m normally not a big review person but this was worth me taking the time to write something. I didn’t want to go off for hrs in the woods not being knowledgeable about the trail. This ended up being one of the best decisions to hire a guide. His knowledge of nature and would stop to teach ...
I’m normally not a big review person but this was worth me taking the time to write something. I didn’t want to go off for hrs in the woods not being knowledgeable about the trail. This ended up being one of the best decisions to hire a guide. His knowledge of nature and would stop to teach simple things made it very interesting rather than just following the leader. Didn’t have to stress on where we were going , just enjoy the views. He was fantastic w the 3 , 14 yr olds we had and kept it fun. Not a super hard hike at all. Had time to stop whenever we needed. Not rushed at all. Highly recommend this . Our guide John was over the top fantastic. Forest , hiking and outdoors is his thing. You will not be disappointed. Spend the money and have fun.samncolby
September 2023
Love the hike. Has signs and a guide. It was foggy but still worth it . I would go again. Kept up nice . It was a little chilly .
Love the hike. Has signs and a guide. It was foggy but still worth it . I would go again. Kept up nice . It was a little chilly .keeblerkoo
April 2023
Excellent place to visit, highly recommend you go earlier in the day, by 10 a.m. ! It was super crowded when we hiked down and left about 1130. Beautiful Views, it's a very steep walk up, but nobody says you can't stop and catch your breath....it's an adventure not a race!!!! Well worth it whe...
Excellent place to visit, highly recommend you go earlier in the day, by 10 a.m. ! It was super crowded when we hiked down and left about 1130. Beautiful Views, it's a very steep walk up, but nobody says you can't stop and catch your breath....it's an adventure not a race!!!! Well worth it when you get to the top!JeanBaptiste_I
August 2022
Learning about the mountain flora and characteristics. Our guide, John was knowledgeable and patient. We saw lots of cool things and the hike was a workout
Learning about the mountain flora and characteristics. Our guide, John was knowledgeable and patient. We saw lots of cool things and the hike was a workout