Clingmans Dome------- Cades Cove

“I have a couple of friends that are planning a trip From Clingmans Dome to Cades Cove. I would like to go but need some advice about this route. Good trip? Best time to go? Any info would help.”

“i don't know that route but if you go to www.nps.gov you can look at the trail maps online. that's all the info i have. which trails are they taking?”

“I'm not sure what trails their taking. Never hiked any in GSMNP. Can you recommend a good trip. Maybe 5 to 7 days.”

“Some I've done, and some I ain't. But 5 - 7 days??? Everybody in halfway decent shape I'm assuming?? I'll have a looksie farya.

Best time to go? Heyall, anytime! Jan and Feb, pretty much count on needing some ice gear, and early and late winter storms ain't too uncommon on the ridgeling along the AT. If it makes you feel any better about the weather, I used to do a solo Christmas hike every year for about 6 years along the AT thru the Smokies. Several times doing all 69 miles, and sometimes either doing the northern half or the southern half. I made it without killin' mysef easy enough. Tho I did wickedly bust my arse a few times. So unless you're a hardcore winter packer, I'd say any of the Smokies is awesome any time of the year except Jan-Feb.”

“How many miles per day do they want to do?”

“one good hike in the smokies is the AT from fontana dam to newfoundgap. It goes right over clingmans dome, (personally i was a little dissapointed when we got to the top of clingmans and the trail converged with a sidewalk and a bunch of tourists walking up to a big cement tower) oh well though. anyway its inly about 40 some miles, and we did it in 5 days, avg. 10 a day except first and last which were five. really pretty hike though.”

“Take the AT from Fontana Dam to Davenport Gap.”

“Dontch just love those paved walks in the parks?

AT thru traffic keep left

Scenic view exit right lane

Merge

Next exit 7 miles

Next shelter and water 12 miles

Rough trail next 136 miles”

“Well if you want a challenge go up Groshen Prong to Clingmans Dome..
The trail is very pretty and when you get to the top....wow it feels great. Then go on the AT to Le Conte then down Rainbow Falls...
Nice hike.
Barbara”