Lakeview Drive Road to Nowhere
Drive a road that ends in a graffiti-covered tunnel, offering unique photos and access to Smokies hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Lakeview Drive Road to Nowhere
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive a road that ends in a graffiti-covered tunnel, offering unique photos and access to Smokies hiking trails.
"A road to nowhere, but a destination for unique photos and Smokies adventures."
🔦 Bring a flashlight!
Essential for navigating the dark, graffiti-covered tunnel at the end of the road.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Many visitors combine the drive with hikes, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tunnel
End of Lakeview Drive
A 1200-foot tunnel, covered in graffiti, marking the end of Lakeview Drive. Eerie and photogenic.
Fontana Lake Views
Along Lakeview Drive
Scenic overlooks offer glimpses of Fontana Lake, a beautiful reservoir with a rich history.
Hiking Trails
Trailheads near the tunnel
Access to various trails, including those leading to Andrew's Bald and Noland Creek.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tunnel's Mystery
Plan for the Drive and Hikes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a flashlight!
Essential for navigating the dark, graffiti-covered tunnel at the end of the road.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Many visitors combine the drive with hikes, so comfortable footwear is a must.
🚗 Check road conditions
Lakeview Drive can sometimes be affected by weather or park closures.
🐻 Be wildlife aware
Black bears are common in the Smokies; keep a safe distance and never feed them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a flashlight!
Essential for navigating the dark, graffiti-covered tunnel at the end of the road.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Many visitors combine the drive with hikes, so comfortable footwear is a must.
🚗 Check road conditions
Lakeview Drive can sometimes be affected by weather or park closures.
🐻 Be wildlife aware
Black bears are common in the Smokies; keep a safe distance and never feed them.
📸 Capture the graffiti
The tunnel's art is a unique feature, perfect for creative photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are drawn to the unique 'Road to Nowhere' for its mysterious tunnel, covered in vibrant graffiti, and the scenic beauty of Fontana Lake. While the drive offers picturesque views, the unfinished nature of the road and the eerie tunnel are the main draws. Some find the graffiti a bit overwhelming, but most appreciate the distinctiveness of the location and the hiking opportunities it provides.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 'Road to Nowhere' is officially Lakeview Drive, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access is typically from the Cherokee, North Carolina side. It's a scenic drive that leads to a tunnel.
No, the Road to Nowhere (Lakeview Drive) is a separate scenic drive within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, distinct from the Roaring Fork Motor Trail.
From Gatlinburg, you'll typically drive towards Cherokee, NC, and then follow signs for Lakeview Drive. It's a longer drive from Gatlinburg compared to accessing it from Cherokee.
Yes, Lakeview Drive offers several points with scenic views of Fontana Lake, especially before reaching the tunnel.
While RVs can generally access Lakeview Drive, be mindful of narrow sections and parking availability, especially during peak seasons. Check park advisories for any restrictions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a parking tag for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes. These can be purchased online or at visitor centers.
There is no separate fee for driving Lakeview Drive itself, but you will need a valid Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag.
Lakeview Drive is generally open year-round during daylight hours, but it's always a good idea to check the National Park Service website for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.
No, any parking within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including trailheads near Lakeview Drive, requires a parking tag.
Parking tags can be purchased online through recreation.gov or in person at various locations within the park, including visitor centers and automated pay stations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the end of Lakeview Drive is a 1200-foot tunnel, often filled with graffiti. It's a unique spot for photos and serves as a trailhead for several hiking trails. 
The tunnel is generally safe to walk through, but it's dark and can be slippery. Bringing a flashlight is highly recommended. Be aware of your surroundings.
Trails range from easy walks to more strenuous hikes. Popular options include the hike to Andrew's Bald and trails along Noland Creek.
Yes, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its wildlife, including black bears. Keep a safe distance and do not feed animals. +1
Lakeview Drive was intended to be a highway connecting communities displaced by the construction of Fontana Dam. Construction was halted, leaving the road to end at the tunnel.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The graffiti-covered tunnel is a prime spot for unique shots. Overlooks of Fontana Lake also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Weekday mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the tunnel and lake views without many people in the frame.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, commercial photography or videography may require a permit from the National Park Service.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scope of the tunnel. A flashlight is essential for illuminating the graffiti and ensuring safety.
Yes, the overlooks along Lakeview Drive provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is dramatic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The drive itself offers scenic views of Fontana Lake, which can be a good way to keep younger ones entertained. For families who enjoy short hikes, the trails near the tunnel, like the one to Andrew's Bald, offer a chance to stretch their legs and experience nature. However, ensure children are comfortable with walking and aware of wildlife. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Don't forget your wide-angle lens and a good flashlight to capture the full scope and detail of the artwork. Beyond the tunnel, the overlooks of Fontana Lake present stunning opportunities for landscape photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Remember to be prepared for the conditions in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This includes carrying sufficient water, wearing sturdy hiking boots, and being aware of potential wildlife encounters, such as black bears.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Lakeview Drive
This unfinished highway serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of large-scale infrastructure projects. The tunnel itself, now a canvas for graffiti, has become a unique attraction, drawing visitors who are intrigued by its mysterious past and the stories of the communities that were lost.
Visitors can explore the remnants of this history by driving the road and hiking the trails that branch off from it. Understanding the context of its creation adds a layer of depth to the experience, transforming a scenic drive into a journey through local history and the impact of development on rural life.
Hiking Adventures from the Road to Nowhere
One of the most popular hikes is to Andrew's Bald, a beautiful grassy bald offering panoramic views. This trail is approximately 1.8 miles roundtrip and is a favorite for its scenic payoff. Another option is the Noland Creek Trail, which follows a picturesque creek and offers a more remote hiking experience.
When planning your hike, remember to check trail conditions, pack plenty of water, and wear appropriate footwear. The Smokies are also home to wildlife, so be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from any animals you encounter.
Navigating the Graffiti Tunnel
To fully experience the tunnel, it's highly recommended to bring a flashlight. The darkness can be quite profound, and a light source will not only help you see the intricate artwork but also ensure your safety as you walk through. The graffiti ranges from simple tags to more elaborate murals, creating a constantly evolving visual spectacle.
While the graffiti adds an edgy and memorable element, remember that this is still within a national park. Be respectful of the environment and the history of the area. The tunnel is a popular spot for photos, so be prepared for other visitors, especially during peak times.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit