A spruce fir tree in the early morning light. The spruce fir forest is home to many threatened species and the endangered spruce-fir moss spider. Due to logging, pollution and invasive insects their fight for survival continues.
First light of the day from the Clingmans Dome parking area.
Early morning is a wonderful time to explore Clingmans, with less crowds and more beauty than you'll find in mid-day.
A look back at the beginning of a new day from the Clingmans Dome observation tower.
If going to Clingmans for the sunrise, arrive 30 minutes before the actual sunrise time to experience the vibrant and bold colors of first light.