Where is Clingmans Dome?
Usa, north-america
11.26 km
2,025 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Clingmans Dome Road! This beauty winds its way up to the highest point in Tennessee, straddling the border with North Carolina in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Think stunning vistas and crisp mountain air.
This fully paved road, officially known as Clingmans Dome Road (duh!), clocks in at about 7 miles. You'll start your ascent from U.S. Highway 441 and climb over 1,500 feet. Don't worry, it's not crazy steep – the average grade is a manageable 4.31%.
Keep in mind, this road is seasonal! It's generally open from April to the end of November, but Mother Nature calls the shots, so closures are possible due to weather. Speaking of weather, be prepared for anything! Even in summer, it can be significantly cooler up top than down below, and snow is a possibility outside the peak summer months.
But trust me, the views are SO worth it. At the summit, you'll find a cool observation tower offering mind-blowing 360° panoramas of the Smokies. On a clear day, you can see for over 100 miles, spanning across seven states! Plus, the drive itself is gorgeous, with plenty of pull-offs to admire the mountain scenery and a dozen waterfalls. There's even a Visitor Center and restrooms at the parking area. This is one road trip you won't regret!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 11.26 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,025 m
- Difficulty
- easy
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