The Clingmans Dome climb from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center is a significant road biking challenge taking you through the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While the surface is fine for your road bike, be prepared for potentially heavy traffic on Highway 441 with limited shoulder, though traffic on Clingmans Dome Road is usually lighter. Over roughly 20 to 20.5 miles, you'll ascend dramatically, gaining around 4,600 to 5,100 feet with an average gradient near 4.5% (including a downhill section on Clingmans Dome Road), climbing through various forest types to the cool, high-elevation spruce-fir zone. The scenery is incredible, with numerous overlooks offering sweeping views of the layered mountains.