Clingman Dome is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can experience magnificent panoramic views from the observation tower.
How to get to Clingman Dome:
There are two ways to get to Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap Road from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, or Balsam Mountain Road from Cherokee, North Carolina. The drive up to the summit is a short 7 mile drive.
Observation Tower:
The Clingmans Dome observation tower provides 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. The panoramic view includes the Great Smoky Mountains, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the distant Appalachian Plateau. Sunsets and sunrises are spectacular from the tower on clear days.
Hiking Trails:
There are several hiking trails that range from difficult to easy. The most popular trail is the Clingmans Dome Trail, a 0.5-mile loop that leads to the summit. For a more strenuous hike, try the Forney Creek Trail, a 3.5-mile out-and-back trail that descends into the valley below.
Whether you choose to hike to the summit or simply enjoy the panoramic vistas from the observation tower, this iconic destination is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.