Tennessee's Highest Point Is Home To An Overlook With Magnificent Views
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Tennessee’s highest point is, perhaps to the surprise of no one, nestled in the heart of the eastern state. If you’re looking to rise above the Great Smoky Mountains and the flat plain of the Cumberland Plateau, then you’ll want to plan a visit to Clingmans Dome. The mountain views are expansive, and you’ll get to see a natural spruce-fir forest from the highest point in the state. Learn more about it below!
Clingmans Dome rises 6,643 feet above the forested floor below and is the highest point in Tennessee. It's actually the third-highest mountain located east of the Mississippi River itself, with Mt. Mitchell and Mt. Craig in North Carolina rising just slightly higher.
The view is beautiful from the Clingmans Dome observation tower, atop which visitors can see more than 100 miles when the air is clear. When dusted with smog, the visibility extends just under 20 miles.
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The observation tower is open all year long, but keep in mind that weather conditions do require its closure during the winter season at times. Make sure to check the location's status from December through late March.
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Clingmans Dome Road is roughly seven-miles long, and it's studded with a series of scenic pullouts for visitors. You'll have stunning views of ridges, valleys, and expansive forest along the way.
The road ends in the parking lot for the Clingmans Dome Observation Area, which is accessible by way of a half-mile trail from end-to-end. Though paved, the trail is quite steep!
Pets and bicycles are not permitted, and the trail is too steep to be wheelchair accessible, unfortunately. We'd recommend planning for cooler temperatures and wet conditions. Dress in layers, and bring a jacket! Yes, even in the summertime.
Have you visited the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower? Have you been to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains? Leave your thoughts and experience in the comments below!
You can learn more about Clingmans Dome with a visit to the state’s official website.
If you’re looking for more beauty, these glamping spots in Tennessee are a true dream!
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Clingmans Dome Drive, Clingmans Dome Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA