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Clingmans
Dome is, at 6,643 feet, Great Smoky Mountains National Park's
highest point.
Clingmans Dome is a
popular Park destination. Located along the state-line ridge, it is
half in North Carolina and half in Tennessee. The peak is
accessible after driving Clingmans Dome Road from Newfound Gap, and
then walking a steep half-mile trail. A paved trail leads to a
54-foot observation tower. The Appalachian Trail crosses Clingmans
Dome, marking the highest point along its 2,144 mile
journey.
It is the highest point in Tennessee, and the
second highest point east of the Mississippi. Only Mt.
Mitchell (6,684 feet) in North Carolina rises
higher.
Clingmans Dome
is a popular Park destination, located along the North Carolina,
Tennessee border. The peak is accessible after driving
Clingmans Dome Road from Newfound Gap, and then walking a steep
half-mile trail. A paved trail leads to a 54-foot observation
tower. The Appalachian Trail crosses Clingmans Dome, marking the
highest point along its 2,144 mile journey.
APPALACHIAN MOUTAINS CLINGMAN
DOME IS A MUST
SEE
Views
from Clingmans Dome are spectacular.
On clear cloud free days views expand over 100 miles and into
seven states. However, air pollution limits average
viewing distances to 22 miles. Despite this handicap,
breathtaking scenes delight those ascending the
tower.
SUNSET
AT CLIMAN'S DOME SMOKY NATIONAL PARK
IS A MUST SEE
It is a great place for sunrises and
sunsets.
Cloudy days,
precipitation, and cold temperatures reveal the hostile environment
atop Clingmans Dome. Proper preparation is essential for a
good visit as weather conditions atop Clingmans Dome change
quickly. Snow can fall from anytime between September and
May. Get weather forecast before heading to the
tower.
The cool, wet
conditions on Clingmans Dome's summit make it a coniferous
rainforest. Unfortunately, pests, disease, and environmental
degradation threaten the unique and fragile spruce-fir
forest. Dead trunks litter the area, and dying trees struggle
to survive another year. As nature works it's course, a
young forest will replace these dying trees. Berries thrive
in the open areas and are always a tasteful treat to
hikers.
Although
Clingmans Dome is open year-round, the road leading to it is closed
from December 1 through April 1, and whenever adverse weather
conditions require. Adventurous people can hike and
cross-country ski on the road during the winter
time.
If you are
ever in the area, Clingmans Dome is a 'must visit' place that one
would regret missing!
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