Clingmans Dome via Appalachian Trail(edit)

Went on a rainy Friday morning, so no views...but those days when you're in the clouds have their own distinct beauty. The trail itself is well maintained and clearly marked, although I did start out in the wrong direction from Newfound Gap, initially! Due to the fog, I didn't see the southbound trailhead across the road from the parking lot. So pay attention: if you take the trailhead that begins from the parking lot by the Rockefeller memorial, you are headed NORTH...keep going and you'll end up in Maine. I should have known this, as there is a sign clearly stating where you're going, but it was early and I was just ready to get out there. Thanks to the Gaia GPS app, I realized my mistake after about half a mile. :) This route is very much a "green tunnel." You won't experience many views or sweeping vistas until you get to the top. Leconte via Alum Cave is a much better option for that. However, this route is every bit as magnificent, just in a different way. The lush forest and trickling streams can lull you into a calm, dreamlike state. It made the hike feel much, much shorter than it actually is (16 miles roundtrip). It's a great place for contemplation, meditation, or prayer. The grade is fairly moderate for much fo the trail, though there are some areas with stairs. And make no mistake, as you get close to the summit, you WILL experience some thigh-burning climbs, which makes the summit all the more sweet. This is definitely high on my list of Smoky Mountain day hikes, and I'd recommend it to anyone.