4-Day 3-Night Clingmans Dome Backpacking Itinerary:
Being the highest point in the park, Clingmans Dome offers a great vantage point from the watchtower giving panoramic view of several mountains on the Appalachian Trail. While there is a quick day hike on a paved road that can get you there, here is an itinerary that includes it as a stop on a backpacking adventure. Be warned Clingmans Dome does run the risk of being overrun by tourists, but if you get up there either early or late to appreciate a sunset/sunrise you can be treated to some spectacular views.
This low difficulty itinerary is made in a loop starting and ending at Husky Gap Trailhead off of Newfound Gap Road. After your first day of hiking, you will experience minimal elevation gain. On this hike, you will get views of Sugarland Mountain, Mount Collins, Mount Love, Clingmans Dome, and as always, fantastic treeline views from the Appalachian Trail.
Trek Specs:
Type Of Route: Loop
Total Mileage: ~30 miles
Total Elevation Gain: 6,687ft
Are Permits Required: Yes
Day 1: Husky Gap Trail to Mount Collins Shelter.
- Via Husky Gap Trail>Sugarland Mountain Trail
- Distance: ~10.4
- Elevation Gain: ~4,400ft
- You will catch views of Husky Gap as well as Sugarland Mountain.
Day 2: Mount Collins Shelter to Double Spring Gap Shelter.
- Via Sugarland Mountain Trail>Appalachian Trail
- Distance: ~6.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~1,388ft
- You will catch views from Mount Collins, Clingmans Dome, Mount Love, and Mount Buckley on this day.
Day 3: Double Spring Gap Shelter to 21 Mile 53 Backcountry Campground.
- Via Appalachian Trail>Goshen Prong Trail>Little River Trail>Husky Gap Trail
- Distance: ~9.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 246ft
- Notable views include rainforest-like terrain seen throughout the hike, as well as views of Little River.
Day 4: 21 Mile 53 Backcountry Campground to Husky Gap Trailhead.
- Via Husky Gap Trail
- Distance: ~4 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~653ft
***Reminder to always check the park’s website to get up-to-date information on trail closures and the latest backcountry rules and regulations.
