The best walks and hikes around Fontana Dam

Yes, the area offers some great options for easier outings. The Twentymile Cascade is a family-friendly 1.2-mile roundtrip hike that follows a wide gravel path along a mountain stream to a beautiful cascade. For a slightly longer but still moderate option, consider the Twentymile Trail loop, which is a well-regarded path through the forest.

Dogs are generally not permitted on trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which includes many of the paths starting directly from the dam, such as the Appalachian Trail. However, dogs are allowed on a leash in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads. For hiking, you'll have better luck in the nearby Nantahala National Forest, which is known to be more dog-friendly. Always check specific trail regulations before you go.

For panoramic views, the hike to the Shuckstack Fire Tower is a classic choice. The trail involves a significant climb, but the 360-degree views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains from the top of the tower are a fantastic reward. The Appalachian Trail to Shuckstack Fire Tower route is a popular way to get there.

The hike to Gregory Bald is a challenging but highly rewarding experience, especially known for its spectacular flame azaleas in early summer. The Twentymile to Gregory Bald loop is a strenuous, full-day hike with over 1,100 meters of elevation gain. It's a difficult route best suited for experienced hikers with good fitness.

Yes, there are several excellent loop hikes. The Shuckstack Fire Lookout Tower – Lakeshore Trail loop is a demanding 13.5-mile (21.7 km) circuit that combines a climb to the fire tower with sections along the scenic Lakeshore Trail. It's a great option for a challenging day out.

The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) crosses directly over the top of Fontana Dam, making it exceptionally easy to access. You can park at the visitor center parking lot and walk onto the dam to find the white blazes marking the trail. From there, you can head north into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or south. The shelter near the dam, known as the "Fontana Hilton," is a famous stop for thru-hikers.

The trails in this area are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning views of Fontana Lake from the ridge-lines, the unique experience of crossing the dam on the Appalachian Trail, and the lush, dense forests of the Great Smoky Mountains and Nantahala National Forest.

The main parking area is located at the Fontana Dam Visitor Center. This large lot provides convenient access to the dam itself, the Appalachian Trail, and trailheads for routes like the Lakeshore Trail. For trails in the Twentymile area, there is a separate ranger station and parking area.

For a strenuous, full-day loop, the Fontana Hilton – Bee Cove Knob loop is an excellent choice. This difficult 11.8-mile (19 km) hike takes you through remote sections of the forest, offering solitude and a true mountain challenge with significant elevation gain.

The entire area is a hub for outdoor activity. Key areas for hiking include:

• Nantahala National Forest: A vast forest popular for its extensive trail system, offering a wide variety of hiking experiences.
• Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest: A highly-regarded area known for its impressive old-growth trees and well-maintained, peaceful loop trails.
• Lakeshore Trail Trailhead: The starting point for a long, scenic trail that follows the northern edge of Fontana Lake, offering a more remote backcountry experience.

Spring and fall are ideal for hiking, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall provides stunning autumn colors. Summer can be hot and humid, especially at lower elevations, but is a great time to enjoy the lake. Winter is much quieter but requires preparation for cold weather and potentially icy trail conditions.

There is no entrance fee for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but a paid parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes. You can find the most current information on parking fees and regulations on the official park service website. For more details, visit the National Park Service website.