Clingman’s Dome

The higher I got on the mountain the colder it got, and the more snow you could see on the sides of the road.  The last couple of miles before the road to the dome had quite a bit of sand on them.  Between the wet road and the sand it kept me attentive around all the corners, couldn’t sightsee as much while riding.  When I got to the access road to the dome it was closed because of ice and snow.  I turned around and stopped at the next lookout spot.  I offered to take a picture for a family, then they took the picture above for me.  When we got talking they were from Bridgton, Maine.  My parents are both from Bridgton, so I asked if they knew any of my family that are still in that area.  They didn’t!

The Next Day

I put in my GPS Cherokee as I knew that was the starting town for the Blue Ridge Parkway.  It took me back up the same mountain to Clingman’s Dome.  Today the access road was open, so I figured I’m supposed to do it.  A little change in plans!  By the time I got up to the parking lot, I was chilled.  I debated putting my chaps on, but didn’t.  I climbed the .05 mile hike up – it was quite steep.  I wasn’t cold anymore!  The views were absolutely beautiful, perfectly clear day.

When I got to the top, just before doing the ramp of the dome there were 5 to 6 hikers with packs.  I didn’t think much of it until on the way down I saw the trail sign that said Appalachian Trail.  On the way down I talked to one of the volunteers, she drives more hours than she works that shows how much she loves what she’s doing.  Like she said what better office could you have!

Love and Light to you all!