Clingmans Dome Road In Great Smoky Mountains National Park Could Open Today

Visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park could be able to drive up to Clingmans Dome as soon as today if conditions allow, though bad weather could force park officials to close the access road at any time.

Winter weather, especially at high elevations, is often unpredictable, which is why the park typically closes the road from December 1 through March 31 each year. But milder temperatures this winter have allowed for better access to the road for visitors wanting to reach Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park 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.