Looking South From Clingmans Dome over mountain range

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Clingmans Dome

Great Smoky Mountains National Park


‘On top of Old Smoky’ is Clingmans Dome (elevation 6643ft), the park’s highest peak. At the summit, a steep, half-mile paved trail leads to an observation tower offering a 360-degree view of the Smokies and beyond. It can be cold and foggy up here, even when the sun is shining in Sugarlands, so bring a jacket. The tower resembles something of a flying saucer, with a gently curving ramp leading up to the top.

Panels around the viewing platform indicate names of the surrounding peaks and distant places of interest.

As one of the must-see sights in the park, Clingmans Dome gets crowded, especially in the summer. Note that the 7-mile access road to Newfound Gap Rd is closed to vehicles from December through March. The viewpoint is open year-round, however, for those willing to hike in – take care on the trails, which can be icy even in March or April.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park attractions

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

3.48 MILES

The story of the Smoky Mountains began in primordial times when clashing supersized continents created a chain of mountains that are today among the…

2. Newfound Gap

5.32 MILES

The lowest drivable pass through the Smoky Mountains is located here, at 5046ft. After the pass was discovered in 1872, a new road followed suit,…

3. Rockefeller Memorial

5.32 MILES

This two-tiered stone-walled structure overlooking two states commemorates the $5 million contribution John D Rockefeller Jr made to help make the…

4. Carlos C Campbell Overlook

6.7 MILES

This scenic overlook provides a sweeping view of the various types of forests covering the slopes to the east. You'll see spruce-fir forest at the top,…

5. Mt LeConte

7.2 MILES

Mt LeConte (6593ft) is the park’s third-highest peak and one of its most familiar sights, visible from practically every viewpoint. The only way to get to…

6. Elkmont Historic District

7.78 MILES

Elkmont has much history hidden in its woodlands. Just south of the campground (crossing the bridge over Little River), you'll find a clubhouse and…

7. Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

10.15 MILES

Ride the scenic 2-mile aerial tramway to the Bavarian-themed Ober Gatlinburg ski resort and amusement park. At the amusement park you'll find an indoor…

8. Gatlinburg SkyLift

10.34 MILES

This ski-resort chairlift swoops you high into the Smokies, providing stellar views. The lofty SkyDeck and the 680ft-long SkyBridge, the longest…