The Observation Tower of Clingman's Dome

This is my second post for our Clingman's Dome experience at the Great Smoky Mountain. From the time we move to Tennessee we became a fond of hiking. We hike pretty much on local trails near to we're we live. We were looking forward to some hiking in the mountains and wanted a challenge. Looked over maps and chose the Appalachian Trail which picks up just below Clingman's Dome. The views, trail and scenery did not disappoint us. The amazing change in weather from the bottom to the top was like watching fall turn to winter in an hour. Leaves were blowing everywhere, clouds were coming up the side of the mountain and surrounding us. The temperature dropped to 42 F from 68 F at the bottom. It was ominous and gorgeous all at once. We parked at the top for the walk to the dome. The wind was gusting up to 30-35 MPH, felt like a cold tropical storm. The top was covered in clouds, amazing! This is a wide paved trail that goes up steeply in spots. The air was quite thin for us too. We hiked for almost 2 hours including the stay at the top, an amazing experience.

20 comments Clingman's Dome, Family Attractions, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park