Clingmans Dome, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Clingmans Dome towers at 6,643 feet and stands as the highest point in the Smoky Mountains National Park, the highest point along the Appalachian Trail, the highest point in Tennessee, and the second highest point east of the Mississippi river.
The Cherokee know the mountain as Kuwahi or Mulberry Place and consider it a sacred place. According to legend, medicine people would come to the mountain to fast and pray, seeking guidance from the Creator, then they would return to the people of Kituhwa with the guidance and instructions.
Cherokee myth also includes several stories surrounding this mighty peak. The bears had their townhouse under this peak and here they would gather to dance before retiring to their dens to sleep during the winter months. This peak is also the mythological location of Magic Lake, where sick bears would go to be healed. To our eyes the lake appears as clouds which fill the valleys below.
During Removal, the rugged slopes would serve as refuge for Cherokee's seeking to escape the forced march to Indian Territory.
Access: Although Clingmans Dome is open year-round, the road leading to it is closed from December 1 trough March 31, and whenever weather conditions require. From the road and parking lot, visitors will need to hike up a wide paved ramp to view the mountains from the overlook. This ramp is a steep half-mile walk, so wear comfortable shoes. Also, the weather at this altitude is more akin to Canada than Tennessee, so dress accordingly before you begin your hike up.
Stay: Clingmans Dome is in the Smoky Mountains, on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. It is very close to Cherokee, North Carolina (25 miles) to the east and Gatlinburg, Tennessee (22 miles) to the west. If you're looking for a comfortable place to stay the night, either of these towns is a good stop over. Check out BedandBreakfast.com for a selection of nearby Bed & Breakfasts:
GPS: 35.562883661530876,-83.49875450134277
Map & Directions:
View All Things Cherokee Travel Center in a larger map
Clingmans Dome is located in the middle of the Great Smoky Mountains. Take Highway 441 from either Cherokee, NC or Gatlinburg, TN to reach Clingmans Dome Road. For specific directions, click the "Directions" link in the location bubble of the map above and enter your starting location on the left.
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