Driving to Clingmans Dome, the Highest Point in the Smokies
Usa, north-america
11.26 km
2,025 m
easy
Year-round
Hey, fellow adventurers! Ever dreamed of touching the sky? Then you HAVE to check out Clingmans Dome Road! This incredible paved road winds its way up to Clingmans Dome, a mountain straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Starting near Newfound Gap on U.S. Highway 441, this 7-mile road, also known as Kuwahi, climbs from 5,048 feet to a whopping 6,643 feet – that makes it the highest point in Tennessee! The road ends at a parking area, then a half-mile paved trail takes you to the top of the mountain.
This road is only open from April to November, and trust me, you'll want to pay attention to the weather. It can change in a heartbeat, with clouds rolling in, rain, and even snow possible between September and May. Temperatures are usually way cooler up top than in the surrounding areas, so pack accordingly!
But oh, the views! At the summit, you'll find a cool observation tower that gives you 360-degree views of the Smokies. On a clear day, you can see for over 100 miles, spanning seven states! Even along the drive, there are viewpoints galore where you can take in the gorgeous mountain scenery and spot some of the 12 waterfalls in the area. Plus, you can find a Visitor Center and restrooms near the parking lot. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
Where is it?
Driving to Clingmans Dome, the Highest Point in the Smokies is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.6588, -100.0582
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 11.26 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,025 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 38.6588, -100.0582
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