The Smoky Mountains Road to Nowhere, officially known as Lake View Drive, is a captivating mountain highway located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Bryson City, North Carolina. This scenic road offers a unique glimpse into the region’s history, stunning natural beauty, and the ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance this one-of-a-kind attraction.
The Intriguing History Behind the Road to Nowhere
The story of the Road to Nowhere dates back to the 1930s and 1940s when Swain County residents were forced to relocate due to the creation of Fontana Lake and the expansion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The federal government promised to build a new road, Lakeview Drive, to replace the old Highway 288 that was submerged under the lake’s waters. However, construction was halted due to environmental concerns, leaving the road unfinished and earning it the moniker “The Road to Nowhere.”
Hiking Trails and Scenic Vistas
Despite its unfinished state, the Road to Nowhere offers visitors a scenic drive and access to a network of hiking trails. At the end of the six-mile winding road, you’ll find the trailheads for the Goldmine Loop Trail, Lakeshore Trail, and Tunnel Bypass Trail. These trails provide breathtaking views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to explore abandoned homesteads and witness the remnants of wild boar traps.
Current Status and Ongoing Improvements
While the Road to Nowhere remains unfinished, it has become a popular tourist attraction in the region. In recent years, the road has undergone repairs and upgrades, including the reconstruction of the 6.5-mile stretch, replacement of guardrails, and the construction of more accessible parking spaces. These improvements, funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, aim to enhance the safety and accessibility of this unique destination.
Visiting the Road to Nowhere
Accessing the Road to Nowhere is a straightforward process. From downtown Bryson City, follow Everett Street from U.S. 19 and continue onto Fontana Road. After a few miles, you’ll see the Great Smoky Mountains Park sign marking the beginning of the Road to Nowhere. Continue for six miles through the park until you reach the parking area near the tunnel.
Additional Information
- Parking Fees: Visitors are required to purchase parking tags, which cost around $15.7 million for the recent road rehabilitation project.
- Hours and Timings: The road is open year-round, but temporary single-lane closures and periodic closures of some parking areas may occur during ongoing maintenance and construction work.
- Lodging and Dining: Bryson City offers a variety of lodging options, including log cabin rentals, boutique hotels, bed and breakfast inns, and campgrounds. The town also boasts a range of dining experiences, from traditional southern home cooking to gourmet cuisine.
The Smoky Mountains Road to Nowhere is a unique and captivating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history, stunning natural beauty, and the ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance this one-of-a-kind attraction. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a scenic drive, the Road to Nowhere is a must-visit destination in the Great Smoky Mountains.
References
- Romantic Asheville. (n.d.). Road to Nowhere, Great Smoky Mountains. Retrieved from https://www.romanticasheville.com/road_to_nowhere.htm
- Explore Bryson City. (n.d.). Road to Nowhere, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.explorebrysoncity.com/things-to-do/great-smoky-mountains-national-park/road-to-nowhere/
- TripAdvisor. (2024). Road to Nowhere – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1238248-d143678-Reviews-Road_to_Nowhere-Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park_North_Carolina.html
- Great Smokies. (n.d.). The Road to Nowhere – Bryson City NC – Great Smokies National Park. Retrieved from https://www.greatsmokies.com/road-nowhere/
- Daily Yonder. (2023). ‘The Road to Nowhere’ Becomes Its Own Destination. Retrieved from https://dailyyonder.com/lakeview-drive-gains-popularity-warrents-new-repairs/2023/09/06/.