The Gimp Conquers the Dome!!!

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The signs warn you at the beginning of the path to Clingmans Dome. It is NOT ADA accessible. The half-mile walk (a misnomer if ever there was one) has a 13% elevation gain, taking you 332 feet UP. Worth it? You bet your life. Before I started the climb I took some albuterol to help with my breathing. I also navigated the paved path by zig-zagging, making the walk longer but much, much easier on my lungs. The reward is a stunning panoramic view of the Smokies and, on good viewing days, about 100 miles surrounding. On this day I could see Fontana Lake near Bryson City, North Carolina. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge were easily visible. Mount Mitchell, the tallest mountain east of the Rockies, was also visible. (Clingmans Dome, at over 6,600 feet, is the third tallest.) It took no time at all to get down. Someone commented as I zipped past that I had energy. "No," I replied, "this is gravity." It's a strenuous walk, even for the healthy. Wheelchairs and scooters aren't allowed, simply because of the elevation gain (and drop -- about 65 feet per 1/10th of a mile). I would strongly recommend that you know your body and your limitations (and don't try to kid yourself) before you try it. If you're in good shape you should be able to make it (do take full advantage of the benches along the way, regardless). The Gimp conquered it. My legs are asking me what the bleep did I do to them yesterday. It was worth it.