>>> 6.24.04 - Gatlinburg to Clingmans Dome - GSMNP

Description: 20 mile climb to Clingmans Dome, the best view in the park
When: July, 2004
Distance: 41 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 5,061 ft.
Information: Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Clingmans Dome

Review: This is one of my favorite rides so far. I have done a lot of camping and hiking in the Smokies but this was my first attempt to ride in the park. Clingmans Dome, as seen on the Smoky Mountains page, is the highest point in Tennessee and the highest point in the park at 6,643 feet.

The climb was actually very enjoyable. I warmed up a little on a trainer before I began. Not too many flat spots to warm up in the Smokies. The grade isn't too bad, but the length of the climb is very challenging. Newfound Gap is a good spot to take a break, eat a snack and top off your water.

If you want to do this ride make sure you are up early and riding by 7am. That will help you avoid a lot of the traffic in the summer months. The climb up was beautiful and traffic wasn't a problem. People are pretty used to campers, hikers and cyclists.

Clingmans was in a cloud when I arrived at the top, but it broke to reveal the mountains below. The descent was awesome! The grade isn't too severe so you don't get much over 40 mph, but a 20 mile downhill is always great!