Clingman's Dome is one of those amazing places in Gatlinburg that everyone MUST see if they visit.
This summer, my husband and I took our church youth group to Gatlinburg, TN for a week-long time of fun and relaxation.
Visiting Clingman's Dome
One of our fun outings was to the Clingman's Dome — a 1/2 mile trek up a long and winding path. Getting up the path is hard, but at the top, it is totally worth it.
At 6,643 feet, Clingman's Dome in Great Smoky Mountains National Park's highest point. It is the highest point in Tennessee and the second-highest point east of the Mississippi. There is no entrance fee or anything so this would be one of those things that are absolutely free to do!
A couple of years ago, my husband and I trekked up this same destination with this same group and we barely made it to the top. It took us a long time to get up there, but I am proud to say that this time around — it only took us 15 minutes!
There are a lot of great photo opportunities along the way from gorgeous mountain backdrops to rock formations that you can use to take photos on.
To get to Clingman's Dome, you have to leave Downtown Gatlinburg, and trek through the mountains. It is about an hour ride up, but it is so worth it, especially if you get there and the visibility is amazing. On clear fog-free days, you can see over 100 miles and into seven states.
There are other trails you can take through the actual mountains that veer off of the Clingman's Dome path, but I have never been one to be THAT adventurous, so I just stick to the paved path. That steep 1/2 a mile trek is plenty enough for me.
If you are thinking about visiting Gatlinburg, TN, then Clingman's Dome is a must-see — especially if you are the hiking type.
Our group had such a fun time there and it is a great way to conquer those fear of heights!
This national park is open year-round, however, the road leading to the dome is closed from December 1- through April 1 so make sure you get up there to see it before the road closes. It is definitely a spectacular sight to see!
Planning on Visiting Gatlinburg soon? Check out these other posts
- Your Complete Travel Guide to Gatlinburg, TN
- Amazing Places to Eat in Gatlinburg
- Learn About the True Beauty Behind Gatlinburg in the Arts and Crafts Community
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail – Seeing Gatlinburg in All Its Charm
- The Appy Lodge – Gatlinburg TN
- Fort Fun Gatlinburg – a Great Place to Let Loose and Have Fun!
- Clingman’s Dome and the Beauty of the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, TN
- Spending Time in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Soar through the Mountains in Anakeesta
- Ole Smoky Distillery Tour – Learn About How Moonshine is Made
- Fowler’s Clay Works – Learning How to Make Pottery in the Heart of the Smoky Mountains
If you want to find out more information about Clingman's Dome, you can ask for free visitor information by clicking here.
Cynthia
Saturday 2nd of September 2023
Clingmans Dome was a great challenge. I thought I would not make it to the top. Luckily you can sit and walk up at your own pace. The last part I did without a stop. I was very proud of myself πͺπ½ Quite an achievement for my age (71) Beautiful reward up there, the view π β¦β¦. August 17 th, 2023 π₯π₯π₯with husband & daughter
Jennifer Sikora
Saturday 2nd of September 2023
WOW! That is awesome that you are 71 and made it all the way to the top. I am so glad that they have added benches along the way and resting places. It makes the trek up much easier.
Vyjay
Monday 29th of August 2016
Clingmans Dome sounds like a great place to go with friends and have a fun experience. The hike too is rewarding with beautiful views. Thanks for introducing me to this lovely place.
Heather
Tuesday 23rd of August 2016
I really need to get back to this area and hike more trails. It's gorgeous.
Chris
Tuesday 23rd of August 2016
Gorgeous views!
One thing the US does do so well is their National Parks!
Thanks for sharing
Jordan
Tuesday 23rd of August 2016
Those pine tree though...Do they ever end! I dream of fresh air and big wilds so this is right up my alley! Thanks