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Looking for a cool place to explore in the Smoky Mountains?
Or maybe you’re in the mood for a spooky hike with a side of eerie history?
Either way, let me introduce you to the Road to Nowhere—an abandoned highway in Bryson City, North Carolina, that leads straight into a dark tunnel, surrounded by ghost stories, breathtaking views, and a history that’s as wild as the winding road itself.
I first heard about the Road to Nowhere from social media posts, and it immediately landed on my must-visit list.
A road that just stops?
A creepy tunnel in the mountains?
A broken promise from the government?
Say no more—I was in. But it wasn’t until I was in Bryson City for the Polar Express a few years ago that I realized just how close it was to downtown.
My youngest daughter and I had a little time to kill, so we took the short drive to see what all the fuss was about. And wow, did it deliver.
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History of the Road to Nowhere
The story of the Road to Nowhere is the ultimate case of “best-laid plans gone wrong.”
Back in the 1940s, Fontana Dam was built to generate hydroelectric power for World War II efforts. Great news for the aluminum industry, not so great for the hundreds of families whose homes and farmlands were swallowed up by the newly formed Fontana Lake.
To soften the blow, the government promised to build a road through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, allowing displaced residents to access their family cemeteries.
The problem?
The road was never finished. Environmental concerns—such as sulfur-rich rock and acidic runoff—halted construction, leaving behind a six-mile stretch of road that leads to, well… nowhere.
Where Is It Located & How to Get There
If you’re in Bryson City, getting to the Road to Nowhere is a breeze.
From downtown, take Everett Street north, follow Lakeview Drive, and keep going until the pavement quite literally disappears.
The drive is only about 10 minutes, but you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into another world—a beautiful, slightly eerie, but undeniably intriguing one.
My First Visit to the Road to Nowhere
The drive up was stunning.
It was November, and while most of the fall colors had faded, a few golden leaves still clung to the branches like they weren’t ready to let go just yet.
When we arrived, I was immediately struck by the tunnel’s ominous vibe.
Graffiti covered the entrance, including the unsettling phrase “Free Hugs” painted next to a gaping hole in the side of the tunnel wall.
Yeah… no thanks.
They must clean up the graffiti often, because on my most recent visit this specific “Free Hugs” was removed an new graffiti has taken over.
What shocked me the most was how long the tunnel actually was.
From the outside, it looked like a short walk—maybe a minute or two, tops. But once we reached the middle of the tunnel, it was a whole different experience.
Holy Freak-Out-Ola!
The light from the entrances were still visible, and yet, strangely, we were in total darkness.
No sounds.
No breeze.
Just the echo of our footsteps.
I timed it—it took over five minutes to get through, and I walked at a steady pace. If I wasn’t slightly creeped out before, I definitely was by the time we reached the other side.
How long is the Tunnel to Nowhere?
You wouldn’t think it’s very long just by looking at it, but it’s a 1/4 of a mile long and took me about 5 minutes to walk through at a casual pace.
Hiking Trails & What to Do Beyond the Tunnel
The road itself may have been abandoned, but the adventure doesn’t stop at the tunnel. There are several hiking trails that lead deeper into the Smokies, each offering a different glimpse into the area’s past.
- Lakeview Drive Trail: A scenic, relatively easy hike with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Fontana Lake.
- Goldmine Loop Trail: A moderate hike that connects with the Lakeshore Trail, offering even more hidden historical gems along the way.
- Noland Creek Trail (North Trail): If you’re a history buff, this one’s for you. The trail takes you past remnants of old farmsteads and homesteads that were left behind when Fontana Lake was created.
From what I researched I expected to see stone foundations, chimneys, and other eerie relics of a forgotten past. However, when I went on the Noland Creek trail I couldn’t find anything. I took the Fontana Lake path on Noland Creek Trail. Perhaps if I had taken a different route I may have seen something.
On a side note, if you ever take a trail near the Road to Nowhere and find any of these old gems on the trails, please shoot me a message and let me know where to find them!
I suppose I’ll have to save that for my next adventure.
Parking & Other Logistics
- Parking: Free, but limited—especially on weekends.
- Bathrooms: None, so plan accordingly.
- Cell Service: Spotty at best.
- Flashlights: Essential for walking through the tunnel. Even during the day, it’s pitch black in the center.
Best Time to Visit
Fall is hands-down the best time to visit. The mix of vibrant foliage and eerie fog makes for an unforgettable experience.
Spring is another great time, especially if you enjoy seeing wildflowers along the trails.
Winter is great if you want to avoid crowds and difficulty finding a parking spot.
Summer is great if you love immersing yourself in the greenery.
Haunted Tales & Unexplained Encounters
Now, let’s talk about the ghosts—because, trust me, this place has its fair share of spooky stories. Some visitors report hearing whispers inside the tunnel, while others have seen shadowy figures lurking in the darkness.
One of the eeriest stories comes from a woman who saw two robed figures beckoning to her inside the tunnel, though her friends saw nothing.
And then there are the hikers who claim to have seen glowing orbs along the Noland Creek Trail.
But perhaps the creepiest legend of all is U’tlun’ta (Spearfinger), a Cherokee folklore creature with stone-like skin and a long, sharp finger used to snatch up wandering children and remove their livers.
So, you know… maybe don’t let your kids wander too far.
Other Things to Know Before You Go
- You can sometimes see an underwater ghost town! When Fontana Lake’s water levels are low, the remains of Judson, NC, emerge from the depths.
- The Park Service still ferries people across the lake to visit family cemeteries. Even though the road was never completed, these cemetery visits continue as a way to honor displaced families.
- No fees to visit. This is a rare, totally free adventure in the Smokies! However, you do need to get a parking pass if you plan on parking for more than 15 minutes.
- A parking pass is required in the Smoky Mountains. Get more info on how to get your parking pass here.
Where to Stay Near the Road to Nowhere
If you’re planning a trip to the Road to Nowhere, you’ll want a great place to stay nearby. Here are a few of my top recommendations:
- Gorgeous Stays Campground: From glamping buses, tents and tiny houses to tent platforms, this unique and friendly hidden gem is my personal favorite. (Click here for my honest review of Gorgeous Stays Campground)
- Folkestone Inn: A charming bed & breakfast with mountain views and a cozy, historic feel.
- Lakeview at Fontana: A boutique inn with spa tubs on private decks—because ghost-hunting should come with a side of relaxation.
- Everett Hotel: Located right in downtown Bryson City, perfect for easy access to restaurants, shops, and the Road to Nowhere.
For a deeper dive into where to stay, check out my full guide to The Best Places to Stay in Bryson City.
How To Spend a Day in Bryson City With the Road to Nowhere as Your Focus.
I’ve put together an itinerary based on my own experiences, complete with my favorite spots to eat and explore. Think of this as your choose-your-own-adventure guide—but trust me, you’ll want to follow these recommendations to make the most of your day!
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Morning: Breakfast and Beating the Crowds
First things first: food and strategy. You’ll want to hit the Road to Nowhere first thing after breakfast to avoid crowds and snag a parking spot. The lot is tiny, and nothing ruins the allure of a “forgotten road” like fighting for a parking space.
Breakfast Stop: Mountain Perks
Before heading out, stop at Mountain Perks, a charming little café right as you’re leaving downtown. Whether you’re a coffee purist or someone who believes whipped cream is a necessary part of a balanced breakfast, they’ve got you covered.
Mid-Morning: The Road to Nowhere & Hiking
Once you’ve had your caffeine fix, it’s time to drive to the Road to Nowhere. As you make your way up, enjoy the scenic twists and turns—it’s a short drive, but the views make it feel like you’ve entered another world.
At the end of the road, you’ll find a tunnel that feels straight out of an adventure movie. Walk through it (bring a flashlight if you’re not a fan of the dark), and you’ll find yourself at the start of some incredible trails.
Hike Recommendation: Noland Creek Trail
If you only have time for one trail, Noland Creek Trail is the one to pick. Even in early spring, it stays surprisingly lush, and the waterfalls and rapids along the river? Absolutely stunning.Bring plenty of water and a snack because once you start walking, you won’t want to stop.
Afternoon: Refueling & Downtown Exploration
After all that hiking, you’ve earned a solid meal.
Lunch Spot: High Test Deli & Sweet Shop
This Bryson City staple has been around for over 18 years, and for good reason—the sandwiches are top-tier.
If you love a good French dip, this one is chef’s kiss.
Their menu is perfect for hungry hikers who need to refuel before diving into an afternoon of exploring.
Once you’ve had your fill, it’s time to check out downtown. Plan to do this before 5 PM because many of the shops and museums close early (small-town charm, right?). Definitely check opening hours in advance, as some places have limited schedules.
Evening: Dinner & Drinks
After a day of adventuring, it’s time to treat yourself.
Dinner Stop: Pasqualino’s Italian Restaurant
Located right in downtown, Pasqualino’s is the kind of place where you can dress up if you feel like it—but no pressure. The portions are generous, the atmosphere is cozy, and the pricing is reasonable.
I had the prime rib, and it was so massive it practically needed its own zip code. (Bonus: You’ll likely have leftovers for a late-night snack.)
After-Dinner Drinks & Live Music
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, Mountain Layers Brewing, Bryson City Brewing, or UnPlugged Pub are all fantastic choices for winding down with a drink. Depending on the night, you might even catch some live music to cap off the evening.
Other Recommendation of Where to Eat in Bryson City
After exploring the eerie-yet-beautiful Road to Nowhere, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Whether you need a hearty breakfast before hitting the trail or a relaxing meal and a cold drink after a day of adventure, Bryson City has plenty of great dining options.
From cozy diners to riverside restaurants and local breweries, I’ve put together a list of the best places to eat in Bryson City—including my personal favorites. Check it out here:
👉 The Best Restaurants & Pubs in Bryson City, NC
So, who’s ready for a road trip?
Final Thoughts
The Road to Nowhere is equal parts beautiful, historical, and just the right amount of eerie. Whether you’re a history lover, a ghost story fanatic, or just someone looking for a unique hike, it’s a must-visit spot in the Smokies. With scenic views, fascinating history, great hiking, and delicious food, this itinerary will give you the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
So, grab a flashlight, bring a camera, and maybe—just maybe—don’t walk through the tunnel alone. 😉
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