Adventure Out

Adventure Out Clingman’s Dome

By Peter McIntosh

We’re going to hit the road for our April adventure, visiting a spot that’s been closed for the winter season, opening April 1st. Technically the observation tower is open year round but the road leading to the tower closes for the winter.

Our destination is Clingman’s Dome, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Clingman’s Dome is the third highest mountain in the eastern United States. Only Mount Mitchell and Mount Craig, both in North Carolina, are higher. Clingman’s Dome is the highest point on the entire Appalachian Trail. The mountain is 6,643 feet above sea level and there’s a modern observation tower on the top that puts you 50 feet higher. And this viewing platform offers a stunning 360 degree panorama of the Great Smoky Mountains.

There are signs at each compass bearing, describing the mountains far off into the horizon. The mountain is named after Thomas Lanier Clingman, a North Carolina senator who explored the area in the 1850’s and was a staunch promoter of the mountains of western North Carolina. This is a popular destination in our nation’s most popular National Park, so you’ll be sharing the views with a few other folks. If you can arrange it, try to be there at sunset as the twilight views are unsurpassed. But busy or not, this place is well worth a visit at any time. And if you’re wondering how did the Great Smoky Mountains National Park get its name? The Smokies are named for the blue mist that always seems to hover around the peaks and valleys. The Cherokee called them “shaconage,” (shah-con-ah-jey) or “place of the blue smoke”

The trail to the top is a 1/2 mile paved footpath winding through a spruce forest, with benches every 1/10 mile to stop and catch your breath. The trail is steep but it’s not too bad a hike. And bring a sweater or windbreaker as it noticeably cooler at the top of the mountain. And while I encourage everyone to hike to the top, the views from the parking lot are worth the trip. There are picnic tables and restrooms at the parking area as well Happy Hiking! And yes there’s still time for my April rhyme: Springtime’s here so no need to be pokey, Let’s go on a trip high in the Smokeys. It’s just up the road, not too far from home, The beautiful mountaintop called Clingman’s Dome.

Getting there: From downtown Clayton, it’s 80 miles to the trailhead and a very easy drive. Go north on US 441 following the signs to Sylva, Dillsboro and Cherokee. There are a few turns here but you stay on US 441 all the way up to Newfound Gap. From here turn left and go 7 miles to the parking area. I suggest making a day of it. Visit the fun souvenir shops in Cherokee, or try your luck at the Cherokee Casino’s gaming tables. And take your time stopping at the numerous overlooks along your way in the park as all these views are amazing. And do note that the road to the Clingman’s Dome is closed from December 1st to April 1st and other times if weather conditions dictate.

On the web: Great Smoky Mountains National Park: http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/clingmansdome.htm

Peter McIntosh is an accomplished professional photographer. His photography is displayed in collections across the country. His passion for nature and the outdoors is what fuels his column. His work is available as fine art prints. Peter offers one on one and small group instruction on camera operation and photography. To see more of Peter’s photos, or if you have a question or comment, visit Peter’s website:www.mcintoshmountains.com