Road To Nowhere Guide
A Journey Interrupted: Discover the Road To Nowhere Guide
The "Road to Nowhere," officially known as Lakeview Drive, is a poignant reminder of broken promises and a testament to the enduring spirit of a community. Located near Bryson City, North Carolina, this unfinished road offers stunning views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but its history is steeped in both beauty and sorrow. It's a unique destination that combines natural splendor with a powerful story. The Road to Nowhere's origins lie in the creation of Fontana Lake in the 1940s. The construction of the Fontana Dam flooded the town of Proctor and several other communities, displacing over 1,300 families. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) promised to build a road to reconnect these displaced residents with their ancestral lands and cemeteries. However, due to environmental concerns and funding issues, the road was never completed, leaving a six-mile stretch of pavement that abruptly ends in a tunnel. Today, the Road to Nowhere is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and scenic drives. Visitors can explore the unfinished tunnel, hike along the trails that branch off from the road, and enjoy breathtaking views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains. The area is particularly beautiful in the fall, when the leaves change color. The Road to Nowhere also serves as a reminder of the human cost of progress and the importance of honoring promises made to communities affected by development.
Transportation
From Bryson City, take Fontana Road (Highway 28 North) for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Lakeview Drive. Follow Lakeview Drive to the end of the paved road. Parking is available at the end of the road.