At 6,643 feet, Climgmans Dome is Great Smoky Mountains National Park
highest point. It is the highest point in Tennessee, and the
second highest point east of the Mississippi. Only North
Carolina's Mt. Mitchell (6,684 feet) rises higher. 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, making the highest point along its 2,144 mile
journey. Vistas from Clingmans Dome are spectacular. On
clear, pollution-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. It is a great place for sunrises and
sunsets (however, after a sunset, driving home in the dark can be quite
a challenge). Cloudy days, precipitation, and cold temperatures
reveal the hostile environment atop Clingmans Dome. Proper
preparation is essential for a good visit. Weather conditions
atop Clingmans Dome change quickly. Snow can fall anytime
between September and May. 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. Berries thrive in the
open areas, and a young forest will replace the dying trees.
Although Clingmans Dome is open year-round, the road leading to it is
closed from December 1 through April 1, and whenever weather conditions
require. People can hike and cross-country ski on the road during
the winter. Ed captured this image of the tower on Clingmans Dome.
 next image |
|
|
|
