About Appalachian Trail from Fontana Dam to Shuckstack
Fontana Dam is where the Appalachian Trail enters the Smokies for northbound hikers, and the trail heads straight up. The popular day hike follows the AT from the dam toward Shuckstack, an old fire tower with a wide view over Fontana Lake and the Smokies. Expect roughly 3.5 miles each way and about 2,000 feet of climbing, a strenuous half-day. (The Cheoah Bald stretch of the AT lies south of the dam in the Nantahala National Forest, outside the park.)
The hike
The trail crosses the top of Fontana Dam, then climbs through hardwood forest. Allow a long half-day, and remember that the climb back down is hard on the knees.
When to go
Spring and fall are best. Summer is hot on the lower slopes. Winter hikers should carry traction.
Getting there
Fontana Dam is off NC-28 near Fontana Village, about 30 minutes from Bryson City. The AT trailhead has parking. If you will be there more than 15 minutes, you need a parking tag of $5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year; federal passes are not accepted.
Know before you go
Bring plenty of water, since there is none on the climb. Check the NPS Fontana page for dam-area conditions.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Wolf Ridge Trail: a strenuous climb from Twentymile
- Twentymile Loop Trail: a quiet connector near the Twentymile trailhead
- Hazel Creek Trail: a remote, boat-access backcountry route
Planning and safety
Treat this as a full-day commitment. Steep mountain trail often takes closer to one mile per hour on the climbs, so build in extra time. Start early, set a firm turnaround time, carry a headlamp, and tell someone your plan before you lose cell service.
Check conditions the morning you go. The park posts trail and road closures and cautions, and storms, ice and Hurricane Helene repairs can change access with little notice. Carry water, a rain layer and a map, keep a safe distance from bears and elk, and pack out everything you bring in.
Good to know
- How long is Appalachian Trail from Fontana Dam to Shuckstack?
- Appalachian Trail from Fontana Dam to Shuckstack is 3.5 miles one way (7.0 miles round trip), with about 2,000 feet of climbing. It is rated strenuous.
- Are dogs allowed on this trail?
- No. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, dogs are allowed only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
- Do I need a parking tag to hike here?
- A Park It Forward parking tag ($5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year) is required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Entry is free, and federal passes such as America the Beautiful do not replace the tag.
