ShareFor most bikers, the thin air will be more than a minor inconvenience. Few bikers are acclimated to the diminished amount of oxygen found at higher elevations, and care should be taken not to overestimate your ability to make the transition. But breathlessness is an integral part of this ride. The climb takes you near the top of the world's oldest mountains, smoothed somewhat by their exposure to the elements for billions of years, but still obviously wild and rugged. After you've gained the summit, let your eyes fly across the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. It's recommended riding Clingmans Dome when traffic is prohibited, December 1 through March 31; otherwise, the vehicles make it unsafe.
I had never considered this road before because of the traffic. I had forgotten that the road is closed and am happy that Trails.com posted it. 
