Winter Hike: Clingmans Dome > Road Prong - 2 Options - 7/10 M - Moderate

*** PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE POSTING BEFORE SIGNING UP ***

THE EVENT
It's time to get one more hike off of Clingmans Dome/Kuwohi peak before the road closes for the season, and before winter temps take hold.

DESCRIPTION
We offer 2 Options to hike from the highest point on the Appalachian Trail (6643') to one of 2 trailheads through the remaining leaves of Fall. Both Options are mostly downhill so it's a good opportunity to get some trail time. Both Options will require a car shuttle both before and possibly after the hike. Option 1 will be about 7 miles, and Option 2 will be about 10 miles. See details below.

QUALIFICATIONS
Option 1 hikers should be regularly hiking a 2.0 mph pace, over 5 miles or so, with 500’ of elevation gain. Option 2 hikers should be regularly hiking a 2.0-2.5 mph pace, over 6-8 miles, with 500’ of elevation gain.

LOCATION
All hikers will meet at the Chimney Tops TH off of 441 at 8:30 to arrange shuttles to and from the starting trailhead. We'll all start hiking together from the CD/K TH around 9:00.

ROUTES
Option 1 - AT (N) – Road Prong TH – 6.5 Miles +500’/ -1300’

Option 2 - AT (N) – Road Prong - Chimney Tops TH @ US 441 – 10 Miles +500 / - 3200'’

HIDDEN OPTION
For those Option 2 hikers who would like to climb Chimney Tops just before the end of their hike, please note your preference when you RSVP. The CT Profile is linked below.

WHAT TO BRING
Temps at 6000+ feet of elevation can be considerably colder that what is forecast for surrounding towns in the winter. Hikers should bring a headlamp and a backup light, at least 1 liter of water, and an extra insulation layer, along with gloves and a warm hat.

We always suggest carrying the 14 Essentials when going onto the woods. You can download a pdf file here that discusses these essentials.

NAVIGATION AIDS
Hike Map
Road Prong Profile
Chimney Tops Profile

FULL DISCLAIMER
Meetup organizers/leaders are not guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being.

By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possible death. The organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant-including you- at any event.

All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for this event you affirm that you understand this disclaimer and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against Lane DeCost, the organizer of this event.

EVENT LEADER
Lane DeCost - 900 Miler x4 / AT section hiker / Search and Rescue team member