Your adventure commences at the Cligmans Dome Visitor Contact Station. From this point, you'll embark on a slightly over half-mile hike to the renowned Observation Tower atop Cligmans Dome. This trek is an excellent option for all skill levels, provided you can handle a gentle incline on the ascent.
As you amble along, your self-guided audio tour will provide fascinating insights into the rich history and diverse ecosystem of the Great Smoky Mountains. You'll learn about the formation of the Smokies and discover the original Cherokee name for Cligmans Dome. Additionally, you'll hear the intriguing tale of the mountaineering competition that bestowed this peak with its current name.
Following this, you'll uncover some lesser-known history of the region, from a catastrophic plane crash to a long-abandoned hidden tunnel.
Finally, you'll arrive at the Observation Tower itself, majestically situated on the heights of Cligmans Dome. From this vantage point, you'll be privy to panoramic views not only of the Great Smoky Mountains but also of seven entire states. Your compact tour concludes atop this observation tower.
Audio-guided tour
Food and drinks
