If you're going to Clingmans for the sunrise, arrive 30 minutes before the actual sunrise time to experience the vibrant and bold colors of first light.

Clingmans Dome

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Kristi Parsons

You are here

Plan In onX Backcountry

Pets allowed

Not Allowed

Elevation Gain

334.00 ft (101.80 m)

Trail type

There-and-back

Distance

1.20 mi (1.93 km)

Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The short paved trail to the summit is a popular tourist stop for good reason: Fantastic 360-degree views are to be found from the observation tower.

To get to Clingmans Dome, exit Newfound Gap Road and follow Clingmans Dome Road for approximately 7 miles. You will be greeted with stellar views to the south and down into the Forney Creek valley as you arrive in the parking lot. There is a visitor center located near the start of the trail where rangers can answer any questions you may have.

The trail proceeds for a half mile up to the observation tower at the summit of Clingmans Dome. The tower was built in 1959 and offers views that can stretch for up to 100 miles on a clear day. Just below the summit you will find a short spur trail that connects up with the Appalachian Trail. Jumping on the AT from Clingmans Dome is a great choice for many, and it offers a chance to escape the crowds and experience more backcountry in Smokies.

Please note that Clingmans Dome Road is closed from December 1 through March 31.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring

Summer

Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Incredible views.

Cons

Crowds. Traffic congestion.

Trailhead Elevation

6,300.00 ft (1,920.24 m)

Features

Big vistas

Typically multi-day

No

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Deep Creek Campground

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Elkmont Campground

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Smokemont Campground

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Comments

07/01/2018

Photos from sunrise at Clingmans Dome on July 1, 2018.

08/23/2017

The observation tower is now closed as of 8-24 for the remainder of the 2017 season for repairs. Got there the day before.

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