The highest point in the Smoky Mountains, 6,643-foot Clingmans Dome, was named in honor of North Carolina Senator Thomas Lanier Clingman, who helped measure it in 1858. Take a short but steep, half-mile hike along a paved walkway up to the Dome's 54-foot-tall observation tower for a panoramic view of the Smoky Mountains. To reach Clingmans Dome, take a 7-mile side road off Newfound Gap Road. The road to Clingmans Dome is usually closed from December through March because of weather conditions. For more information about Clingmans Dome, visit www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/clingmansdome.htm.
