Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
On this hike a knowledgeable guide will discuss the plant and animal life of the Great Smoky Mountains as well as the history of the people that called this area home. We'll hike the highest section of the Appalachian Trail through dense spruce-fir forest and climb the Clingmans Dome observation tower at 6,643 feet for a 360 degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
GSMNP Parking Pass Required- A parking pass from GSMNP is required for this activity. Details about the parking pass including online purchases can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm
What To Expect
An excellent opportunity to experience on of the true gems of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Clingman's Dome is the highest point in the Smokies with 360 degree views of the surrounding southern Appalachians. The route this hike takes is off the beaten path so the hiker is able to get away from the masses but still enjoy the same views from the top of a manmade structure. This hike can be steep in some sections but the reward is worth the extra effort. SMG staff will share with you the diversity on a small and large scale and what makes up the high elevations of the Smokies. Also, you will learn about invasive species that have attacked the upper reaches of the park and the outlook of that for the future. As we approach the highest summit in Tennessee, we will be on the scenic Appalachian trail and spend ample time exploring vistas hearing stories. Please note that you will be following the guide from the meeting location to the trailhead. You will need a parking pass for Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Details about the pass can be found here
Options
Clingmans Dome Hike
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Snacks
GSMNP Parking Pass
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
23 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
aWESome!!!
592byrona,May 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did the Classic Van Tour, Clingmans Dome and a waterfall trail. Wes was our guide on all of them, and he is fabulous. His knowledge is vast, and his enthusiasm is contagious. We loved our experience!
What a view!
J1010SKkirank,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The vastness when you get to the top is magnificent. It is a steep walk to the top from the parking lot so be prepared . It is also quite windy at the top. The entire area is absolutely beautiful , stop at the visitor center before heading up, you can buy your parking pass there for $5. Lots of informative things in the visitor center and some fun shopping as well. Go early , I got there around 9:30 and had no trouble parking. Mingus mill is worth a quick stop , very scenic old mill .
The Dome was amazing, but...
Nicole F,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The Dome was amazing, but I would have never found this trail or learned so much without Lydia! She was my guide this morning and was incredible! She knew so much and made the trip 10000 better!
Making the climb
jaybird6952,Apr 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00This was something we wanted to do since coming to Tennessee! We did the walk this morning and we made it to the top! Lots of people doing this and very friendly!
Great views from the observation tower.
930wandab,Apr 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was good to hike up to the Dome's observation tower. The weather was perfect and clear, so a good time the hike. The parking lot was crowded in the early afternoon when we were there. Parking pass is $5 for the park for the day. Take water. The .5 mile hike is steep. Walking poles are helpful.
Hiking with friends and family.
tserrof100,Jun 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent hike, Lydia was an excellent guide and friend to me and my daughter for the day. It was so nice to not be on the paved path with everyone else in the world.
Top of the Smokies is surreal !!
DannyWasserman,Jun 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Clingman's Dome is in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains and is worth the hike. A little bit strenuous, but worth the trek. They have a small, but plenty of room to view the mountain tops and the vastness of the mountain range. Great place to take photos.
5 Stars – Fantastic Tour with Smoky Mountains Guide!
EvelissaC1,Jun 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a wonderful experience exploring the Smoky Mountains with Smoky Mountains Guide. Everything was well organized from start to finish. Our guide, Wes, was outstanding—very knowledgeable, friendly, and easy to talk to. He reached out the day before to coordinate details and gave us great advice on what to bring, which helped us feel well-prepared. Wes was punctual, and the tour itself exceeded our expectations. We chose to walk with a guide so we could learn more about the Smokies, and it was absolutely worth it. Wes shared so much insight about the area’s history, wildlife, and plant life—it really added depth to the experience. We also appreciated the little touches: they provided snacks, water, and even walking poles. All in all, we highly recommend Smoky Mountains Guide and would definitely book with them again. A five-star experience all the way!
Outstanding experience with Wes and Wes
Daniel B,Jun 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Wes and his coworker Wes were the best! They have lived in these mountains all their lives and are founts of Smokey Mountain information! Great with young people, kids, and adults alike. They are engaging and fun. They know the secret back trails where there aren't crowds. Highly recommend this hike!
Fabulous Hike
Colleen P,May 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wes was a great hiking guide! He provided a fun, safe and informative time on our hike on the Appalachian Trail to Kuwhoi.
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