The Climb Up Clingman's Dome!

What to do? On our own now that my family is on their way home? Shopping? Hiking? Food? Relaxation? It’s definitely time to try out this Rebel?

After some quick shopping in Gatlinburg, we headed to the Clingman’s Dome. What an incredible experience! What a fantastic view! I heard of it but always thought it was a hike to a rock formation (ooops!). I had never realized that 6,643 feet, it is the highest point in the Smoky Mountains National Park. The observation tower on the summit offers a scenic 360 degree lookout over seven states and 100 miles on a clear day - with only a moderate one-half hike – cool – we can do this!

Halfway there, the gas hand dropped to a quarter tank – what in the world!! Miles from anywhere, heaven help us! Push forward and hope for the best or go back to Gatlinburg…surely we can drive 40 miles on our remaining gas!

As we wound through the mountains passing the creeks and mini waterfalls, it seemed like a forever drive higher and higher. Sprinkles, sunshine, fog, cool breezes – what a mixture. Not knowing really what to expect, we were shocked at our first glimpse of Clingman’s Dome that we didn’t even get a picture.

When we arrived at the parking lot, Jeanette saw a sign that said climbing was prohibited. Momentarily disappointed, we then realized it meant no climbing on the rocks – Good one Jeanette! In all honesty, though, if I keep my photography hobby, I am going to end up physically fit! We thought a half mile hike – no problem. We didn’t notice the path straight up the mountain and didn’t take into consideration the high altitude and thin mountain air. I have only one question: who in the world rates these mountain hikes? Before we even got out of the parking lot (I can’t believe I am admitting this) we were huffing and puffing. Halfway up, I really didn’t know if I was going to make it but turn around now? Are you kidding? No way! After several rests to catch our breath (by the way, we weren’t the only climbers taking breaks – old and young alike!), we kept climbing thanks to the encouragement of those coming down the mountain.

Then out of the greenery and mist, there she was: Clingman’s Dome! A huge cement alien rising out of the natural beauty. And oh what surrounding beauty! The sheer rugged majesty of the mountains took my breath away (what was left of it anyway!). I just stood in awe of our matchless Creator! All the minute details in those views seemingly went on forever and preserved just for our enjoyment. Wow! I really can’t figure out how someone can surround themselves with nature and its beauty yet not believe in a Creator. It blows my mind!

After the long hike up, I didn’t want to leave but to savor the moment. I could have sat there for hours going round and round the ever changing scene. On one side dark stormy clouds, thick rising mist and on the other, sunshine and a clear view for miles and miles – as different as day and night. So Amazing!

Finally, we were thirsty, bellies were growling with hunger and it was getting late, so we started back down the trail. Taking our time, stopping for lots of pictures that we didn’t have the energy to care about on the way up – like a cross carved into the trunk of tree, raspberries, blossoms, ferns galore, and the view – always back to the view! We could smile encouragement to those on their journey up and secretly enjoy the fact that young, fit guys were huffing and puffing up the mountain. (just maybe it was the altitude!)

It seems there aren’t words to express how this venture imprinted my heart and my mind. My heart uplifted in praise and gratitude to our mighty Redeemer Creator Extraordinaire! My mind filled with optimism and determination. For most visitors it was probably just another stop along the vacation way but the experience increased my determination. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Only one life so soon it will pass. How can I touch my world? How can I touch the lives of those around me for whom I care so deeply for! Only a mountain, I could have quit, I could have turned around. But I made it to the top – victory! The race of life and our ultimate goal of making it to heaven is not to the fastest but to those endure to end! So don’t quit – look up – enjoy the view from right where you are right now! I love the verse: I lift my eyes up to the hills from whence cometh my help! My help cometh from the Lord the maker of heaven and earth. Jesus is our hope and strength. He is walking with us each step of the journey through the ups, downs, highs, and lows. Speaking of down, I must confess going down the mountain is a whole lot easier…especially with a victory under your belt!

With all that fresh mountain air and exercise, these girls ate a huge New York style pizza and then rejuvenated our feet in the hotel Jacuzzi.

Keep your focus….C!