Tellico Village Hiking Club

Friday, Sept. 9, 2011

Depart at 8:00 am from the Cooper Visitors Center

AT Clingmans Dome to Silers Bald (2.25 hour drive)

Distance: 9.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 1200 ft.

Rating: Moderate to strenuous

Activities:  Hiking, photography

Leader: Bob Stewart 458-3727    rlsmks@gmail.com

This hike runs right along the spine of the top ridge of the Smokies, sometimes slipping into North Carolina and then back into Tennessee.  There are great views (6643’ highest point) when the weather cooperates.  Some sections are narrow, steep and rocky. Silers Bald is at 5,607’).

This area has seen bear activity this summer with notices posted and it should be noted that on the pre-hike one week ago, an aggressive bear was encountered where we were having lunch and we were forced to vacate the area.

Driving Directions to Clingmans Dome: TV to Rt. 321 towards Maryville. Continue on Rt. 321 to Townsend and turn left at the light staying on Rt. 321. Continue to Wears Valley and turn right onto Lyons Spring Rd. Continue to Little River Rd at Metcalf Bottoms. Turn left and proceed towards Sugarland’s Visitor Center. Just past the Visitor’s Center you will turn Rt. onto Rt 441S and continue to Clingman’s Dome Rd. Proceed to the parking area where we will assemble for the hike.

Hiking boots and hiking stick(s) are recommended.  Bring ample water and a trail lunch.

Directions will also be provided the morning of the hike.  Car-pooling is recommended and will be set up the morning of the hikes. Passengers are asked to contribute $8 to the driver to help cover gas, etc.