Fontana Dam
Fontana Dam: Tallest dam east of the Rockies, a WWII marvel, and a key point on the Appalachian Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Fontana Dam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Fontana Dam: Tallest dam east of the Rockies, a WWII marvel, and a key point on the Appalachian Trail.
"An amazing feat of engineering with fascinating history and breathtaking views."
🚶♀️ Walk the Appalachian Trail
The AT crosses right over the dam! It's a unique experience for hikers and visitors alike.
🚗 Visitor Center Hours
Check hours before you go; they can vary seasonally or due to staffing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Walk Across the Dam
Top of Fontana Dam
Experience the sheer scale of the tallest dam east of the Rockies. The Appalachian Trail even crosses here!
Visitor Center Exhibits
Fontana Dam Visitor Center
Learn about the dam's fascinating history and engineering marvels, especially its WWII construction.
Scenic Overlooks
Various viewpoints around the dam
Capture breathtaking views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Fontana Dam
Accessing Fontana Dam
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Appalachian Trail
The AT crosses right over the dam! It's a unique experience for hikers and visitors alike.
🚗 Visitor Center Hours
Check hours before you go; they can vary seasonally or due to staffing.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning photos of the dam, lake, and mountains.
💧 Water Release Views
Catch a water release for a dramatic spectacle!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Appalachian Trail
The AT crosses right over the dam! It's a unique experience for hikers and visitors alike.
🚗 Visitor Center Hours
Check hours before you go; they can vary seasonally or due to staffing.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning photos of the dam, lake, and mountains.
💧 Water Release Views
Catch a water release for a dramatic spectacle!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by Fontana Dam's engineering marvel and fascinating history, especially its WWII origins. The free access and stunning views of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains are major draws. While the visitor center's hours can be inconsistent, the dam itself offers a memorable experience for all.
"The dam is amazing and the history behind it is fascinating. It also is part of the Appalachian Trail, you have to literally walk across the top of the dam to stay on the trail. But the best part was how welcoming and informative the visit center workers were."
Joseph Stearns
"Interesting place to visit. They had a couple of videos worth watching and you can walk across the top of the dam."
Frank Dickinson
"What a feat of engineering- I recommend seeing the bottom of the dam and checking out the spillways, then heading up to the top."
Ciera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fontana Dam is accessible by car via NC-28-N. It's located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Many visitors combine a trip here with exploring Bryson City or the Nantahala Gorge.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the Fontana Dam Visitor Center. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Historically, overnight parking was allowed, but it's best to confirm current regulations with the National Park Service or local authorities, as policies can change.
Public transport options are very limited in this mountainous region. Driving is the most practical way to reach Fontana Dam.
From Bryson City, take US-19 S to NC-28 S, which will lead you to Fontana Dam. It's a scenic drive through the mountains.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting Fontana Dam and walking across it is free! The visitor center may have specific hours, but access to the dam itself is generally open.
The dam itself is accessible for walking at all times. The Visitor Center typically operates daily from May to October, 9 am to 6 pm, but hours can vary.
No advance booking is required for general access to Fontana Dam. It's a free-access public area.
While there aren't formal guided tours advertised, the visitor center often has informative videos and staff who can answer questions about the dam's history and operation.
Even if the visitor center is closed, you can still walk across the dam and enjoy the views. Bathrooms and observation decks may remain accessible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk across the top of the dam, visit the visitor center to learn about its history, enjoy panoramic views of Fontana Lake and the Smokies, and even hike a section of the Appalachian Trail.
A quick visit to walk across the dam and take photos can take about 30-60 minutes. If you plan to explore the visitor center thoroughly, allow 1-2 hours.
Absolutely! Fontana Dam makes for a fantastic day trip, especially when combined with other attractions in the Bryson City or Great Smoky Mountains National Park area.
Yes, the area is rich in nature. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other wildlife. One visitor even spotted a harmless Northern Watersnake!
The top of the dam offers incredible views. There are also observation decks and areas around the visitor center that provide excellent vantage points.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the immense scale of the dam from below, the panoramic vistas from the top, and the unique perspective of the Appalachian Trail crossing. The lake and mountain backdrops are also stunning.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted within National Park boundaries and around critical infrastructure like dams. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
While you can take pictures of the dam itself, access to and photography of the internal power plant operations may be restricted for safety and security reasons.
Include a person or the trail markers in your shot to give a sense of scale. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the entire structure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities can be limited, especially outside of peak visitor center hours. The scenic views are a great backdrop for family photos, and the open space allows kids to move around. It's a fantastic, free educational outing that combines nature, history, and impressive engineering.
🚶 Hikers and Backpackers
+1The dam offers a unique opportunity to walk directly on the trail, providing stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. Hikers often use the parking area here, though it's wise to confirm overnight parking policies. The visitor center can be a valuable resource for trail information, weather updates, and a chance to resupply or rest.
🚗 Road Trippers and Day-Trippers
The drive to the dam itself is often beautiful, winding through mountain landscapes. Spend an hour or two walking across the dam, taking in the views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains. If the visitor center is open, take time to explore its exhibits. It's a free attraction that offers a great photo opportunity and a glimpse into significant American history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Fontana Dam
+2The construction involved immense logistical challenges, including the relocation of communities whose lands would be submerged by the creation of Fontana Lake. The dam's sheer size and the speed of its completion highlight the nation's mobilization during wartime. Visitors can learn more about this history at the Fontana Dam Visitor Center, which often features exhibits and videos detailing the construction process and its impact.
Walking across the top of the dam offers a tangible sense of its scale. You can see the vast expanse of Fontana Lake stretching out before you and the powerful spillways below. It's a popular stop for hikers on the Appalachian Trail, who literally walk across the dam as part of their journey, adding a unique human element to this engineering feat.
+1Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail
+1The dam's location provides a unique intersection of human infrastructure and wilderness. Hikers often pause here to take photos, reflect on their progress, or connect with fellow travelers. The visitor center, when open, can be a resource for hikers seeking information or a brief respite. The presence of the AT also means that even if you're not a thru-hiker, you might encounter many hikers during your visit, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
For those planning to visit Fontana Dam, especially if you're meeting a hiker, understanding the dam's role on the AT can enhance your appreciation. It's more than just a dam; it's a waypoint, a challenge, and a symbol for one of the most famous hiking trails in the world.
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