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, youÂ’ll find a fight to make good on a promise. Under another, one of the National Park ServiceÂ’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 wasnÂ’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 weÂ’ll help you uncover the truth.

• Meet at the predetermined meeting area prior to the tour.
• Complete waivers and review park rules and company policies.
• Three hours of hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with stops to explore some of the flora and fauna, artifacts and structures that remain.
• Periodic stops for water and snacks vary by trip.
• Tour ends. Return to lodging or Bryson City.

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.