Clingmans Dome hike: Appalachian Trail to 6,643 feet

Walk the Appalachian Trail to Tennessee's highest point

A guided hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that climbs the highest section of the Appalachian Trail through dense spruce-fir forest to Clingmans Dome observation tower at 6,643 feet. The route stays off the main paths so you avoid the crowds while reaching the same 360-degree views. A knowledgeable guide discusses the plant and animal life of the Smokies, the history of the people who lived here, and the invasive species affecting the high elevations. The hike takes around four hours and includes bottled water and snacks. You'll need a parking pass for Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The experience

The observation tower at Clingmans Dome sits at the highest point in the Smokies, and this hike reaches it by following the scenic Appalachian Trail through the park's upper reaches instead of the crowded main route. That choice means fewer people on the trail but the same reward at the top: a 360-degree view across the southern Appalachians. The route climbs steeply in sections, which is why the guide shares the landscape as you go: the diversity of plant and animal life at high elevation, what makes the spruce-fir forest different from the lower slopes, and how invasive species have changed what grows here.

You'll meet your guide at a designated location and hike together to the trailhead. The four-hour outing includes bottled water and snacks along the way. The guide speaks English and leads the entire route, so the pace and the stories stay with the group. One practical note: Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a parking pass for entry, which you can purchase online before you arrive.

What’s included

• Bottled water.
• snacks.
• knowledgeable guide in English throughout the hike.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00Last departure this season: 30 Nov

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Youth (6 to 11 years) · Child (1 to 5 years): free

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Smoky Mountain Guides

Is this one for you?This hike suits anyone with at least moderate cardiovascular fitness who wants to reach Tennessee's highest point and the Appalachian Trail without fighting the crowds on the main route. The steep sections demand steady effort, but the guide's knowledge of the forest and the 360-degree views from the tower make the climb worthwhile.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (6 to 11 years); Child (1 to 5 years): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Clingmans Dome and why is it worth the steep climb?

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains at 6,643 feet, with a manmade observation tower at the summit that offers 360-degree views of the surrounding southern Appalachians. The steep sections of the hike reward you with vistas most visitors see only from the crowded main route, but from a less-traveled path.

Does this hike stay on the Appalachian Trail the whole way?

The hike follows the scenic Appalachian Trail through the highest section of the park as it approaches Clingmans Dome. The route is off the beaten path, which keeps you away from the masses while you're on one of the most famous long-distance trails in North America.

What will the guide talk about during the hike?

The guide discusses the plant and animal life of the Great Smoky Mountains, the history of the people who lived in this area, and the invasive species that have affected the upper reaches of the park. You'll spend ample time at vistas hearing these stories as the group moves through the forest.

Do I need anything besides the ticket to hike Clingmans Dome?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a parking pass for vehicle entry. You can purchase one online before your hike. The tour includes bottled water and snacks, and the guide leads the entire route from the meeting location to the trailhead.