Post 900 Hike #75: Clingmans Dome to Newfound Gap

I hiked with Richard Ryburn, Dick Ledyard, Frank March, and Jerry Roddy; the hike was one several groups were doing but this group planned to do an additional 2.5 mi. following old U.S. 441 (not sure when this road was replaced by our present U.S. 441—in late fall and winter this old road can be seen from our present U.S. 441 just below Newfound Gap in NC). Because Frank had just flew in from the D.C. area ~0300 hrs, we took a much later start than usual. I had contemplated hiking “up” from Newfound Gap after dropping everyone off at Clingmans Dome; however, we needed to go in three cars since there was some uncertainty relative to who would do the 2.5 mi. add-on hike. I rode with Richard; when we arrived at Newfound Gap ~1300 to leave two of the cars, we saw a few of the others who had just finished the hike. We rode to Clingmans Dome in Frank's Highlander.

At 1345 we had completed the 0.5 mi. of up to get to the trailhead; the 0.5 mi. is quite popular because it is used by anyone going to Clingmans Dome observation deck. Going from the Dome to the Gap is basically down so we did not try to cover the distance quickly. The first picture is of my hiking buddies as we took a break which allowed Frank to eat his lunch; they are Jerry, Frank, Richard, and Dick. Richard and Frank are really into noting nuances that many ignore and/or are not aware; thus a nominal hike such as this can be quite interesting in addition to the typical discussions one can have in hiking.



If you look carefully you'll note in the second picture the limestone wall of the original U.S. 441. It is my intent to incorporate a picture that Dick took of what is left of an old mountain road.