It gets its name because it is a rounded mountain that is shaped like a dome. Coming from New Found Gap, you get your first glimpse of Clingmans Dome after beginning your descent from Mount Love. Mount Love is one of two mountains you climb if you are heading south from Newfound Gap. The other is Mount Collins. Both these mountains have an elevation of over 6000 feet according to Summit Post.
As you can see, you still have a challenge ahead of you once you to descend to the ridge from Mt. Love that takes you to Clingmans Dome. The hike up Clingmans Dome is well worth it because of the observation tower at the top. The best time to go is early spring before the Clingmans Dome Road is open to the public. As long as the road is closed, you can have a private showing of God's great work from the tower. Once the road opens, you have to contend with "tourists" and their children. They obviously don't have the appreciation that a hiker who has hurt to reach the top does.
Here's the spectacular 360 degree view from the lookout tower. On a clear day, you can see for about 100 miles, which includes Mt. Mitchell, the highest point in the Appalachian Mountains. Mt. Mitchell is located in Virginia.
