Tour Description: To many the Road to Nowhere is just another entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, if you dig a little deeper, you might find a unique story spanning three quarters of a century. Under one stone, you’ll find a fight to make good on a promise. Under another, one of the National Park Service’s most important responsibilities, protecting the park for us and future generations.
There are always two sides to every story. The controversy surrounding the Road to Nowhere is no different. Today, this scenic, eight mile stretch of asphalt offers visitors access to the Park, but that wasn’t always the plan. To understand the history of the road, you have to step back to the beginning of the Park's creation during a time when families, communities, and local governments were giving up their land to create the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Fontana Lake. Seventy-four years later, this story is far from over. But the end may be just around the bend. Take a walk with us and we’ll help you uncover the truth.
Focus: Walk back in time as you uncover the history behind this controversial place. Your guide takes you to the shores of Lake Fontana, where the story of the national park in western North Carolina really begins. Learn how the largest dam east of the Mississippi forced nearly 1,000 residents out of what is today national park land. Explore two home sites, reminders of life in the Smokys before the Park.
WHY GO: The history of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans more than seventy five years. However, the story of the Road to Nowhere is a unique and important look into what we as a nation gained through the sacrifice by those who once called these mountains home. Don't miss this essential perspective of the creation of the Park.
NEED TO KNOW: Guides: All tours are lead by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife, history, and culture. Sign up: Reservations are required. Experience: No experience is necessary. Ages: All ages are welcome. Children: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.COST: $34 for each adult. $19 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Two and a half hours of easy to moderate walking with several stops for water and historical discussions along the way. Tours go as fast as the slowest person and cover a little more than 3 miles.
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE: We limit each tour to 6 to 8 people per guide. Large private groups may exceed 12 people and may require more than one guide.
TOUR TIMES: This tour is offered Monday thru Sunday. Tours depart at 8:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, & 5:00 pm. Reservations are required!
LOCATIONS: This tour is offered at the following locations Monday thru Sunday:
The Road to Nowhere
RESERVATIONS: All of our tours require advance reservations. Typically, reservations for our morning tours must be made the previous day. Same day reservations for afternoon tours can be made up to two hours prior to the tour time.
To make a reservation, please call (828) 488-6688 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday thru Sunday.
MORE TOURS: We offer a wide variety of walking and hiking excursions for all ages and experience levels. (See all of our tours.)
WEATHER: The Smoky Mountains are known for its varied climate. Some of our tours hike through temperate rainforests where rainfall can reach more than 100 inches per year. As a nature company we believe that part of experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains is to be a part of the elements that create one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Be prepared to get wet any time of year. Tours depart rain or shine.
CELL PHNOE, CAMERAS & ELECTRONICS: Binoculars and cameras are welcome, but keep in mind that inclement conditions are possible.
Other electronics such as IPODs, cellular phones, and other electronics that disrupt the tours are not allowed.
Any participant whose actions disrupt the tour will be removed from the trip without a refund.
WHAT TO BRING: You should bring enough bottled water for each member of your party, 1 quart of water per person is usually sufficient. Guides carry a water filtration system to refill your bottles with fresh water along the way. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended on all tours, and they are essential on our high elevation hikes. A small backpack to carry your belongings is handy. Bring any medications or prescriptions that may be needed during the duration of the tour. If someone in your party is allergic to bee stings you must bring their epi pen.
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Do not bring expensive electronics, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or illegal drugs.
WHAT TO WEAR: You should wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. A sturdy pair of shoes is suitable for most trips, though comfortable hiking boots are recommended for half day and full day hikes. Do not wear a new pair of shoes or boots – your feet will regret it. The Smokys vary in elevation and so do the temperatures. Always be prepared for changes in weather by wearing layers that can be added or removed. Loose fitting pants and long sleeves are good for protecting you from the sun, insects, poison ivy, etc..
OTHER CONCERNS: Wondering about bugs, snakes, bears, or anything else? Click here for a list of commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
