Return to the previous picture in slideshow. From Clingmans Dome parking lot. The hike to the top of Clingmans Dome is an additional 1/2 mile (one way) and a 330' elevation climb. Once there, you are at the highest point in the Smoky Mountains at 6643' and on top of old Smoky. Although I did the hike, it was so foggy that no pictures were possible from the top. Notice the barren trees at this altitude from the parking lot. This is at least partially due to acid rain. Coal burning plants as far away as the midwest put sulfur in the air. When this passes by the massive peaks in the Smokies, the water and sulfur condenses, bringing acid rain to the higher peaks in the Smokies and devastating the trees. Proceed to the next picture in slideshow.