Clingmans Dome Road to Open (possibly as early as tomorrow)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park announced today that Clingmans Dome Road, a popular high elevation visitor destination, will open to traffic as weather conditions allow as early as February 15. The road will continue to be monitored for hazardous conditions throughout the remainder of the winter season, and will still be subject to closure pending inclement weather.



This means hikes along the Spruce-fir Trail , the upper Sugarland Mountain Trail , and out to Andrews Bald will now be accessible.




Winter weather, especially at high elevations, is often unpredictable, which is why the Park typically closes the road from December 1 through March 31 of each year. Milder temperatures over this season have allowed for better access to the road for visitors wanting to reach the popular park destination of Clingmans Dome, the highest point accessible by vehicle.



The road will not be plowed, though, if snow or ice develops. It will instead be closed so visitors may utilize the area for winter recreation, such as cross country skiing or snowshoeing.



For the most current road closure information, please call 865-436-1200 x 631 or follow SmokiesRoadsNPS on Twitter.





Jeff

Hiking in the Smokies