The Cherokee described these mountains as “shaconage” meaning “blue, like smoke”. A smoke-like natural bluish haze, and mist-like clouds that rise following a rainstorm, prove the inspiration for the name Smoky Mountains.

During the growing season, the Smokies’ lush vegetation emits large quantities of moisture and organic compounds. Together they form a natural haze, which is thickest on calm, sunny, humid days.

At over 6,500 feet, Clingman’s Dome is the Smoky Mountains National Park’s highest point and a great way to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of these mountains. The Dome also happens to be the highest point in Tennessee and is located on the state-line ridge, half of it being in North Carolina and half in Tennessee. One of the views, pictured above – the mountains really do have a blue hue.

Clingman’s Dome is accessible by road and then walking up a steep half-mile, paved trail which leads to a really neat 54-foot high observation tower. On a clear day, the views are simply spectacular and expand over 100 miles and seven states. However, air pollution limits the average viewing distances to around 22 miles. Despite this handicap, breathtaking scenes would warm even the coldest of hearts. I must remember next time to try and make it here either at sunrise or sunset which I’m sure would be a sight to behold.