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Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Clingman's Dome
This route takes you to Clingman's Dome (6,643 ft.), the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and on the Appalachian Trail.
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| Author: | cvb |
| Source: |
 on my phone
|
| Activity: | Bicycling |
| State: | Tennessee (TN) |
| Distance: | 19.53 mi |
| Difficulty: | 7 / 10 |
| Rating: |
 1 rating(s)
|
This is a very challenging but highly satisfying climb. Note that the distance is really 39 miles: it's an out and back, so you must return the same way you go up. The climbing is steady, but mostly at 6% or so. Portions of the descent (especially the section below Newfound Gap) are quite technical. The road from Newfound Gap to Clingman's Dome is closed to car traffic in the winter season but is rideable when snow is not present (watch for debris, though). Parking is available at the Sugarlands visitors center at the start of the ride. For a shorter ride of about 26 miles you can turn around at Newfound Gap overlook. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing as cold weather and precipitation can sneak up on you in a hurry on this climb. Driving directions from Knoxville.
-Mapped by Chris Vanden Bossche
| Position Format: | Datum: |
Tracks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Clingman's Dome
| Distance: 19.53 mi | Points: 137 |
Points of Interest
Photo 4
Location: UnknownThe observation tower is a short .5-.75 mile walk from the parking lot at the top of the climb. You'll need mountain bike shoes if you want to make the trek.
Sugarlands
Location: 35.687836, -83.537722There is a visitor center in Sugarlands with parking, rest rooms, etc.
Start of the climb
Location: 35.665943, -83.527079The lower half of the climb to Newfound Gap is a little steeper than the second half.
Technical Descent
Location: 35.626536, -83.448114The second half of the climb up to Newfound Gap has some sections where the grade decreases and gives you a break. On the descent, though, there are a number of sharp turns and a couple of tunnels to traverse.
Newfound Gap Overlook
Location: 35.610209, -83.426228Restrooms and drinking water available here.
Up we go
Location: 35.603161, -83.449402Clingman's Dome Road
Descend going up--climb going down
Location: 35.582990, -83.472748The 1 mile out of the twenty going up that descends, rather than climbs, comes about here. Reverse on the way back, of course.
Arrival at Clingman's Dome
Location: 35.554575, -83.495064Reach the parking lot and you're still climbing.
Clingman's Dome
Location: 35.558764, -83.496094View from Clingman's Dome
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