Clingmans Dome Observation Tower

I wasn't expecting the crowds that I found up at Clingman's Dome. It is flooded. I'd say, get away from the parking lot ASAP. Clayton from Smoky Mountain Guides gave me some great advice: take the little dirt path down to the left instead of the concrete stairs. It's a bit more of a hike but is totally worth it to skip out on some of the crowds.

This is the highest point of the Appalachian trail--you go across the dome on the hike. The Appalachian trail is the dividing line between TN and NC through the Smokies, and you can see a 360 degree view in both directions from the Dome.

It is a sacred place for the Cherokees and was/is thought of as a place "where the bears dance in the mountains." On a clear day, you can see down to Fontana Lake in North Carolina, which might just look like a glowing blue cloud (it did to me). The Cherokees considered the lake to be a place of healing, and would hike down to it. There are a bunch of information boards about the Cherokees up there.

On another note about bears...Clayton says it's probably good not to eat KFC on the drive up and then leave the windows open. You'll end up finding a bear tearing your car apart. Just YouTube it if you have any doubts.

Breathtaking views. About 15 minutes driving off 441 inside the park and a half mile trek up a very steep, paved trail. Parking was scarce at the head of the trail. Bathrooms are essentially cinder block porta-potties and equally "breathtaking"

This place is amazing. It's the highest elevation in the Smokies and offers 360 degree views all around the park. Great hike, although probably best to avoid if there's a big storm rolling in.

Beautiful. We hiked up the paved path but took the AT and Clingman's dome bypass trail back to the parking lot. The hike back was awesome! I would absolutely recommend it to the crowded paved path although it took a while longer.

I would say the hike can take awhile. Took me about 30mins to get to the top. The day I went was pretty foggy so I wasn't able to see the view as much. The view was still beautiful none-the-less. Make sure to bring a jacket because it does get a little chilly at the top. Wish I could of seen the mountains but man..it was just so awesome to be able to reach the highest elevation top for TN. :) I will check it out again on a clearer day!

Absolutely a MUST SEE... But bring a sweatshirt and pants cause with the altitude it's much much colder.. Bring a good camera too

Sometimes you really have to wait for a parking spot but it’s constantly moving. Worth waiting to hike up the hill which is well paved but steep. Be patient! You are on vacation 😉

Your site says this place is pet friendly, after doing some research I found that dogs are NOT allowed anywhere other than the parking lot. Removing this stop from my trip :-(

Great view and well worth the hike to the top. Don't go when it's cloudy though.

A must see.