Tellico Village Hiking Club

Wednesday, October 12

Depart at 7:30 am from the Cooper Visitors Center

Appalachian Trail: Clingmans Dome to Newfound Gap (2 1/4 hour drive)

Distance: 8.4 miles

Descent: 1500 feet

Rating: Strenuous

Leader: Hamish deWilde   860-716-4016,   signal530@gmail.com

This hike contains the highest point of the Appalachian Trail.  The whole section is above 5000 ft.  The hike runs along the spine of the top ridge of the Smokies and there are some great views when the weather cooperates.  Some of the sections are narrow, steep and rocky.  Because of time constraints and the steepness of the trail, it is best that we hike down the trail from the Clingmans Dome observation tower. The hike is also one way so we will need to leave some vehicles at the Newfound Gap Parking lot to transport us back to the trailhead. That logistic can be arranged before leaving Cooper Visitor Center.

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

Directions will be provided the morning of the hike.  Car-pooling is recommended and will be set up the morning of the hike. Passengers are asked to contribute $7 to the driver to help cover gas, etc.