Clingmans Dome is an adventure in itself but if you crave more, then look no further. In this Smoky Mountains vacation guide, we’ve listed our top hiking trails near Clingmans Dome to satisfy your need for more outdoor escapades.
Hiking around Clingmans Dome provides a unique experience for families looking for outdoor fun in the Great Smoky Mountains. With an array of trails ranging from moderate to challenging levels, there is something for everyone!
Clingmans Dome is a great place to explore the mountains with its towering height of 6,643 feet and stunning views.
Check out these hiking trails near Clingmans Dome that you can visit if you’re looking for more.
How long does it take to hike the Clingmans Dome trail?
The Clingmans Dome trail is a 2.1 km out-and-back trail that is generally considered a moderately difficult hike that takes approximately 43 minutes to complete.
The Clingmans Dome Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Smoky Mountains and therefore has a lot of visitors, so you might want to plan accordingly.
The trail is wheelchair and stroller friendly. However, they may be dangerous to bring on the 0.5-mile steep hike to the top of the dome.
If you want to know more about hiking trails in Clingmans Dome, this list is for you.
Hiking Trails Near Clingmans Dome
Forney Ridge Trail
Forney Ridge Trail is known for its many scenic stops along the way. The surrounding landscape is filled with lush green foliage and breathtaking views. Pack a lunch and enjoy all that nature offers while exploring this stunning trail! Along your journey, you'll come across various wildlife, so be sure to stay alert.
- Parking: Clingmans Dome Visitor Center
- Features: Scenic view, wildflowers
- Skill Level: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 844m
- Length: 18.3-km out-and-back trail
- Time to Hike: 6 hrs and 12 mins.
- Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly? No
- Are Dogs Allowed? No
Andrews Bald Hiking Trail
Visit their website for more information on trail advisory and road closures.
Andrews Bald Hiking Trail is an excellent trail for families exploring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers plenty of stunning views along its path. The trailhead is located at Clingmans Dome parking area and passes through a lush forest while climbing steadily to Andrews Bald.
Clingmans Dome Observation Deck Trail
If you’re looking for a challenge, try hiking the Clingmans Dome Observation Trail! You’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the mountains and valleys below.
- Parking: Clingmans Dome Visitor Center
- Features: Clingmans Dome Observation Tower
- Skill Level: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 101m
- Length: 2.1 km out-and-back trail
- Time to Hike: 43 mins.
- Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly? Yes, but not advisable on the 0.5m steep trail to the top
- Are Dogs Allowed? No
Charlies Bunion Hiking Trail
The trail is considered difficult but offers plenty of spectacular views along the way. The path winds through lush forests and meadows, giving hikers glimpses of wildflowers and wildlife such as deer, grouse, and even black bears.
- Parking: Drive on Newfound Gap Road to the Newfound Gap parking lot, which is 13.2 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center
- Features: Spectacular view and challenging hike
- Skill Level: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: 1640 ft.
- Length: 8.1 m roundtrip
- Time to Hike: 5 hours
- Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly? No
- Are Dogs Allowed? No
Noland Divide Trail Hiking Trail
The trail features a variety of terrain, including rocky ridgelines, lush forests, and grassy meadows. It also offers stunning vistas of the mountains and the Noland Divide. With its variety of flora, fauna, and scenic views, this trail is the perfect place for a family day hike or a weekend backpacking trip.
- Parking: Noland Divide Trail Trailhead
- Features: Waterfalls and Wildlife
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Elevation Gain: 1458m
- Length: 17.9-km point-to-point
- Time to Hike: 6 hours
- Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly? No
- Are Dogs Allowed? No
Alum Cave Trail
Alum Cave Trail is an excellent option for families who want to experience some of the best views in the Smoky Mountains. With its moderate grade and approximately 5 miles roundtrip, it is the perfect length for a day hike.
- Parking: Along Newfound Gap Road
- Features:: Amazing view
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Elevation Gain: 820m
- Length: 4.4m
- Time to Hike: 6 hours
- Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly? No
- Are Dogs Allowed? No
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Be sure you bring a camera with you when you visit the Smoky Mountains to capture those picturesque views from the top. If you’re new to photography, here are some basic photography techniques from PhotoJeepers that will come in handy on your next trip.
Bringing the kids hiking is a good way to get them active and explore the great outdoors! Check out these best Smoky Mountains hikes for kids to get them excited.
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