Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove Smoky Mountains
New to RV ing. We have just bought a new 28 ft class C and are planning our first trip. I have driven large trucks and pulled trailers for over 40 years so I have large rig experience. This class c dr...
Forum Discussion
Been camping in the GSMNP for 50 years so have been there a time or two. While I've done 441 over Newfoundland Gap in cars, minivans, pickkups, 30' TT, and 35' FW, I currently have a truck camper that is 23' long and 10' 8" tall.
Have driven the Cades Cove loop many many times with it, even once when all the limbs were laiden with snow. Never had a problem but you do have to keep an eye out and go slowly when you do come to a low branch or move away from the trees. There will be plenty of places to park along the road with all the pull outs well graveled so near fear of getting stuck as long as you common sense. One of the things we love about the TC is when traffic gets crazy we just find the next spot we can pull off and then grab a snack or take a break for 10 minutes which is usually enough for the jam to clear. If you can go during the weekday and after school starts back in session you would do better. Stock up on food before you go and spend a couple of nights in the campground. Limited groceries in Townsend but enough to restock, plus the gas prices aren't usually bad at the IGA. I'll recommend the Trailhead Steakhouse for a meal or Black Bear Cafe for a sandwich or burger.
Little River road between Sugarlands and Cades Cove is a beautiful drive and easy in your rig.
Since you have big truck experience, you know about downshifting to increase the engine braking. It's even more important in the motorhome since the gas engine doesn't have anywhere near the braking of a diesel with exhaust brake. Don't worry about the traffic behind you, just use one of the many pull offs to let them around (this goes for downhill as well as uphill so you can use a lower gear). It's about 17 miles to Newfoundland gap, so watch you brakes, stop at one of the many pull offs to give them a chance to cool. I've smelt many hot brakes even in cars, but downshift to low gear and take your time you won't have any problems. I've come down the entire way in my gas truck only tapping the brakes a few times. If you go in the middle of the week after school has started, you will have a much more enjoyable ride. There is long vehicle parking at Clingmans Dome towards the end of the parking lot loop. The parking is also more level. The views aren't what they use to be due to the smog so for the best views, try to go within 24 hrs of a cold front going through the area (the stronger the cold front the better). It's a tough steep hike to the top so take your time and water to enjoy, but well worth it on a clear day.
Take your time and enjoy your trip. Feel free to PM if you want more info on the area.
Have driven the Cades Cove loop many many times with it, even once when all the limbs were laiden with snow. Never had a problem but you do have to keep an eye out and go slowly when you do come to a low branch or move away from the trees. There will be plenty of places to park along the road with all the pull outs well graveled so near fear of getting stuck as long as you common sense. One of the things we love about the TC is when traffic gets crazy we just find the next spot we can pull off and then grab a snack or take a break for 10 minutes which is usually enough for the jam to clear. If you can go during the weekday and after school starts back in session you would do better. Stock up on food before you go and spend a couple of nights in the campground. Limited groceries in Townsend but enough to restock, plus the gas prices aren't usually bad at the IGA. I'll recommend the Trailhead Steakhouse for a meal or Black Bear Cafe for a sandwich or burger.
Little River road between Sugarlands and Cades Cove is a beautiful drive and easy in your rig.
Since you have big truck experience, you know about downshifting to increase the engine braking. It's even more important in the motorhome since the gas engine doesn't have anywhere near the braking of a diesel with exhaust brake. Don't worry about the traffic behind you, just use one of the many pull offs to let them around (this goes for downhill as well as uphill so you can use a lower gear). It's about 17 miles to Newfoundland gap, so watch you brakes, stop at one of the many pull offs to give them a chance to cool. I've smelt many hot brakes even in cars, but downshift to low gear and take your time you won't have any problems. I've come down the entire way in my gas truck only tapping the brakes a few times. If you go in the middle of the week after school has started, you will have a much more enjoyable ride. There is long vehicle parking at Clingmans Dome towards the end of the parking lot loop. The parking is also more level. The views aren't what they use to be due to the smog so for the best views, try to go within 24 hrs of a cold front going through the area (the stronger the cold front the better). It's a tough steep hike to the top so take your time and water to enjoy, but well worth it on a clear day.
Take your time and enjoy your trip. Feel free to PM if you want more info on the area.
