Road to Nowhere Tunnel
Walk through a mile-long, unfinished tunnel on a historic, scenic road in the Smokies. A place of nature and poignant history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the light at both ends
Road to Nowhere Tunnel
Best Time
See the light at both ends
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through a mile-long, unfinished tunnel on a historic, scenic road in the Smokies. A place of nature and poignant history.
"A cool spot to visit and learn some local history about."
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark middle section of the tunnel.
🚗 Watch for Bollards
Be cautious of bollards blocking vehicle access right after the parking area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Road to Nowhere Tunnel
Bryson City, North Carolina
Walk through a mile-long, dark tunnel carved into the mountain. Eerie and historic, it's a unique experience.
Scenic Drive
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Enjoy a winding, six-mile drive with stunning views of Fontana Lake.
Hiking Trails
Beyond the Tunnel
Explore trails like Noland Creek Trail for more adventure and lake views.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the 'Nowhere'
Understand the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark middle section of the tunnel.
🚗 Watch for Bollards
Be cautious of bollards blocking vehicle access right after the parking area.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Tunnel
Dogs are allowed through the tunnel, but not on many park trails.
💧 Pack Water
Especially if you plan to hike the trails beyond the tunnel.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark middle section of the tunnel.
🚗 Watch for Bollards
Be cautious of bollards blocking vehicle access right after the parking area.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Tunnel
Dogs are allowed through the tunnel, but not on many park trails.
💧 Pack Water
Especially if you plan to hike the trails beyond the tunnel.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for unique photos and learning local history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Road to Nowhere a cool and historic spot, with the mile-long tunnel being a unique highlight. The scenic drive is enjoyable, and the surrounding trails offer further exploration. Some note the tunnel's darkness and the presence of horse droppings, while others caution about the bollards near the parking area. The historical context of broken promises adds a poignant layer to the experience.
"Was cool to check out be careful make sure you bring a flashlight. There was lots of horse poo in the tunnel. We didn’t go much further than the tunnel because my daughter was in a wheelchair. Looks like a nice place to go for a hike. There were trails beyond the tunnel."
Jen W
"Nice little hike. Easy parking. Flash light not necessary unless you want to see the ground you walk on thru the tunnel. We did not go much past the end of the tunnel to walk the trail to see Fontana Lake. If you do hike, bring drinking water. I heard it was a strenuous hike & few miles."
Danette Kuzel
"The Smoky Mountains offered a scenic drive and a fun stop at the Tunnel to Nowhere. A great short hike! dogs are allowed through the tunnel, but just a heads-up, dogs aren’t allowed on many Smoky Mountain trails, so plan accordingly."
Misty-Roze Krukoski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Road to Nowhere is located about six miles from downtown Bryson City, North Carolina. You'll take a scenic, winding road into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Be aware that vehicle access to the tunnel itself is blocked by bollards shortly after the parking area, so you'll walk the rest of the way.
The drive itself is a scenic mountain highway, but it is winding. The road ends abruptly at a tunnel, and vehicle traffic is blocked beyond that point.
No, vehicle traffic is blocked by bollards at the entrance to the tunnel. You can walk or bike through it.
Yes, there is parking available, but be cautious of the bollards immediately following the parking area.
Yes, the Road to Nowhere and its tunnel are located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the North Carolina side.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to visit the Road to Nowhere or walk through the tunnel. It's a free attraction within the national park.
The Road to Nowhere and its tunnel are accessible during daylight hours when the park is open. There are no specific closing times for the tunnel itself, but it's best visited when there's natural light.
As of recent updates, there is no entrance fee for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, it's always a good idea to check the official NPS website for any changes.
While the tunnel itself isn't officially closed at night, it's highly recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Bringing a flashlight is crucial even during the day.
The main restriction is that vehicles cannot pass the bollards blocking the road to the tunnel. Otherwise, it's open to pedestrians and cyclists during park hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk or bike through the mile-long tunnel, enjoy a scenic drive, and access various hiking trails that lead to places like Fontana Lake. It's also a spot to learn about local history.
Walking through the mile-long tunnel can take about 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
Many find the tunnel eerie due to its darkness and history. Some locals share tales of supernatural activity. It's recommended to bring a flashlight.
Restroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned in most visitor accounts, so it's advisable to use facilities before arriving or be prepared for limited amenities.
While not guaranteed, you might spot wildlife in the surrounding park areas. One visitor mentioned seeing elk in Cherokee, which is nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The tunnel itself offers dramatic shots with its length and darkness. The scenic drive provides overlooks of Fontana Lake, and the surrounding park offers natural beauty.
It can be challenging due to the low light. A flashlight is helpful for illuminating your subject, and a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod can yield better results.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
Daytime is best for seeing the light at both ends of the tunnel. For scenic drive photos, sunrise or sunset can offer beautiful lighting, but be mindful of park access times.
While there are no prominent historical markers directly at the tunnel entrance, the context of the unfinished road and tunnel provides a powerful narrative for your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to talk about history and the importance of promises. Keep in mind that the tunnel can be damp and may have uneven surfaces, so supervise children closely. Consider bringing snacks and water, especially if you plan to explore any of the trails beyond the tunnel. The scenic drive offers beautiful views that can keep younger passengers entertained. Remember to be cautious of the bollards near the parking area when arriving and departing.
🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
+1 The terrain beyond the tunnel can be strenuous, so ensure you have adequate water, sturdy hiking boots, and a map. Remember that while dogs are permitted in the tunnel, they are not allowed on most trails within the national park.
📸 Photographers
+1 Bring a flashlight to illuminate subjects or create light trails. The winding scenic drive also provides opportunities for landscape photography, with overlooks of Fontana Lake offering picturesque views. Consider visiting during different times of day to experiment with light. While daytime offers visibility, the eerie ambiance of the tunnel might be amplified during overcast conditions or late afternoon. The surrounding natural beauty of the Smokies also provides ample subjects for nature photographers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Road to Nowhere
+1This unfinished project has become a symbol of injustice for many locals and the Cherokee people. The land is viewed by some as stolen, and the tunnel represents a physical barrier that forever separated people from their heritage and loved ones buried in the now-submerged lands. Visiting the Road to Nowhere offers a chance to reflect on this complex history and the impact of large-scale development projects on local communities.
Despite its somber history, the Road to Nowhere also offers natural beauty. The scenic drive provides overlooks of Fontana Lake, and the trails beyond the tunnel offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness. It's a place where history, nature, and reflection converge.
Navigating the Tunnel and Surrounding Trails
+1 Be mindful of your footing, as there can be uneven surfaces and, as one reviewer noted, horse droppings. Beyond the tunnel, several hiking trails branch out, offering further exploration into the Smokies. The Noland Creek Trail is a popular option, providing access to more remote areas and beautiful mountain scenery.
+1 These trails can range in difficulty, so it's wise to check trail conditions and be prepared with water and appropriate footwear if you plan on a longer hike. For those interested in photography, the tunnel offers a unique, moody backdrop. The contrast between the bright entrances and the dark interior can create dramatic shots.
The scenic drive leading to the tunnel also provides opportunities for landscape photography, especially with views of Fontana Lake. 
Social
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