Great Smoky Mountains National Park ~ Clingmans Dome (10/2011)

The trek up to Clingmans Dome is brutal; it's only about a mile, but it is a big incline.  But, the view from the top is well worth it (and it's pretty easy coming back down).   I was not the only one huffing and puffing; seems, there are a lot of out of shape folks!  It was too perfect of a day NOT to climb up to the top.  Spectacular!

I love to see dogs in National Parks!

Amazing views such as this along the walkway!

Yaaaah!  The dome is within my reach!

Some snow on the ground, even tho it seem liked a warm day!

Finally, I reached the top!

EASTERN VIEW

NORTHERN VIEW

SOUTHERN VIEW

WESTERN VIEW

There's an easy portion of the Appalachian Trail here

The AT crosses in several areas of this park