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Features
Birding · Wildflowers · Wildlife
Family Friendly
A virtually flat trail that gives a taste of hiking in the high peaks
Clingmans Dome Access Road, the only access to the trail, is closed from December 1 - March 31.
Description
This is a very easy route with minimal elevation gains, which makes it perfect for hikers of all ability levels. As the name implies, the short trail loops through a forest of red spruce and Fraser firs that are found mainly in the high peaks. Although the trail is in great shape, proper close-toed comfortable footwear is recommended.
From the trailhead, follow the path to a fork and choose either direction. Certain parts of the trail will use wooden boardwalks to cross the wetter parts of the forest. This is a self-guiding nature trail with information posts located throughout the loop that give information to the different plant life. Large white quartz rocks also make appearances as you make your way through the trail.
You'll notice several downed trees which are the result of the Balsam woolly adelgids that starve the Fraser firs to death. Yellow birch, and blackberries can also be found here among other flora.
Flora & Fauna
Fraser firs, red spruce, yellow birch, mountain-ash, wildflowers, salamanders, winter wrens, and cedar waxwings can all be seen from this short loop.
Contacts
Shared By:
R Kahboohigh
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