Clingmans Dome is an unusual hike in the Smoky Mountains. For starters, the hike to the 6,643-foot summit follows a paved walkway to the top, which makes it far easier to reach than most mountaintops. Additionally, the hike itself isn't necessarily difficult - just steep - making it more accessible than the rest, as well. With that being said, it also leads to some of the greatest, if not the best, views in the Great Smoky Mountains.

The drive up to Clingmans Dome is a bit harrowing but for those who can get past switchback roads and constant braking, it's a worthy adventure to complete. The views at the top are more than rewarding, and the hike, well - it's a unique one.

How Hard Is The Clingmans Dome Hike?

At the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains, Clingmans Dome seems like it would come with a hike that's far more challenging than many others. This is also the tallest point in the entire state of Tennessee, so it's worth visiting for those who are new to the state and want to see its best scenery from above. With that being said, the biggest question asked regarding Clingmans Dome is: how hard is it, really?

In short, the difficulty level of the hike depends on one's physical fitness and whether they are able to endure a steep walk for a half-mile, as the trail itself is very short. After the drive up to the Clingmans Dome parking lot, guests will have a chance to stop at the Visitor Center and use the restrooms before starting their ascent. From the parking lot, the walk is less than a mile to the top, but the incline itself is what makes this hike so challenging. With a significant grade - as hikers are going up in elevation - it's not wheelchair-accessible. The pathway is, however, paved, so those who have footwear with good traction and comfortable, supportive soles should be fine making their way up. This is a classic case of 'slow but steady,' as one can take their time on the way up and does not need to rush.

Related: Maggie Valley: This Town Is Closest To The Smoky Mountains

What To Expect At The Top Of Clingmans Dome

The only significant complaint when it comes to reaching the top of Clingmans Dome is the weather conditions. Many times, visitors will be above the clouds since due to the elevation, cloud cover slightly further down is not unusual on a cloudy day. Alternatively, pollution or hazy days can prevent views for more than 20 miles - this doesn't mean it's a bad view, it's just one that's not as expansive as another clearer day when the visibility can be up to 100 miles.

At the top, visitors should be prepared to deal with temperatures that can vary by 10 to 20 degrees from what it is at the base of the mountain. The higher elevation often results in cooler temps, so even if one was not cold before starting out on this hike, they might be by the time they reach the summit.

The Winding Road Up To Clingmans Dome

Although the road up to Clingmans Dome is only seven miles, it's a long seven miles for those who have never driven on mountain roads before. Starting after the turn-off Newfound Gap Road, the seven-mile journey begins up to the parking lot. Obviously, drivers should be careful and take heed when ascending and descending this road; there are various pullover points and scenic overlooks that one can choose to stop for, as well.

At the top, the parking lot gives way to the restrooms and the gift shop, which is worth stopping at on the way in or back down from the hike itself. Overall, the trip is easy-going and is definitely something to cross off the Great Smoky Mountains bucket list for those who have never done it before. Clingmans Dome is a great, short hike that's perfect for those who wish to take their time reaching Tennessee's highest point, without the typical risks one might encounter on the trails throughout this vast wilderness.